1,800+ Runners: NetOne Albun Marathon Cementing Honde Valley as Global Tourism Magnet

The Eastern Highlands has firmly established itself as one of Zimbabwe’s premier adventure and Sports Tourism destinations, a status significantly boosted by the successful staging of the NetOne Albun Honde Valley Marathon.Following an invitation from NetOne and Albun Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Alois Bunjira—a former international footballer and son of Mutasa Honde Valley—the event drew a massive turnout, underscoring its growing national importance. Record Participation and High-Level Endorsement Officiating at the marathon, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon.

Barbara Rwodzi, applauded the impressive participation of over 1,800 athletes. The Minister reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the marathon annually, a clear sign of the event’s rising stature in the national calendar. The marathon’s success arrives amid a wave of global recognition for Zimbabwean tourism: Global Milestones: Minister Rwodzi highlighted the sector’s exceptional growth in 2024.

Gastronomy Tourism: Zimbabwe earned International Recognition for its Gastronomy Tourism through UN Tourism, an initiative championed by the Patron of Tourism, Her Excellency the First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa. Viral Endorsement: Global awareness has been significantly enhanced by Jeremy Clarkson’s viral, 17-million-view Top Gear feature, where he described Zimbabwe, and particularly Honde Valley, as “the most beautiful country on earth.” Forbes’ No.

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1 Destination: These endorsements collectively contributed to Zimbabwe being named Forbes’ Number One Destination for 2025, making events like the marathon vital in sustaining this global attention. Sports Tourism: A Catalyst for Rural DevelopmentGuided by the Whole-of-Government Approach and President Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030, the Ministry of Tourism continues to champion Sports Tourism as a key strategy for Rural Development, Economic Inclusion, and Community Empowerment.The marathon was not just a sporting spectacle; it was a showcase of Honde Valley’s breathtaking landscapes and a direct driver of local development. Initiatives supported by the event include: Expanding Accommodation options in the area

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