Published by the government of Zimbabwe
2 May 2008
Harare — At least 30 foreign hunters have registered to participate in this year's hunting show, the Parks and Wildlife Authority has said.
The authority's spokesperson, Retired Major Edward Mbewe, said hunters from the United States, Spain and Britain were expected to take part in the sport.
Rtd Major Mbewe was commenting on allegations that participants had been warned that Zimbabwe was not a safe destination for tourists.
Countries which have advised citizens not to travel to Zimbabwe for fear of violence include the United States, United Kingdom, Japan and most countries in the European Union.
"The hunting festival has not been affected by the indefinite cancellations and postponements by most Western countries that have hit some sections of the tourism sector," he said.
"All the visitors have confirmed their participation in the hunting season that runs between May and October."
Rtd Major Mbewe said while most tour operators were losing clients, an increased number of
foreigners continued to trickle in for the hunting fiesta.
The authority said the number of participants was expected to increase to 40 compared to 15 who came during the same period last year.
The country earned more than US$40 million.
Rtd Major Mbewe attributed the inflows to the "irresistible hunting environment" that Zimbabwe offers.
The increase in the population of wildlife was attracting foreign hunters to come, he said.
ZTA has said it would embark on shows targeting countries which issued warnings against travelling to Zimbabwe.
The shows would be part of a bid to portray Zimbabwe as a safe tourist destination.
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