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Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive, Karikoga Kaseke, wants to award an orphanage and school run by First Lady Grace Mugabe “tourism destination status”, the Patriot newspaper reports.
Tour operators have expressed mixed feelings on whether or not to include a visit to the orphanage in their itineraries. “Visiting an orphanage is not part of our sustainable tourism philosophy and we only offer cultural activities as an add-on in our itineraries if it directly benefits the community,” said Mariska Yntema, Product Developer at Jenman African Safaris.
Frank Glettenberg, Chief Operating Officer at africa220, said there was certainly a growing demand from travellers to explore more than just the touristic highlights of a destination, including interacting with local population and its most vulnerable members, such as children. He said it was always recommended to create spaces where tourists and locals could interact in a non-commercial and authentic environment. However, he emphasised the need to assess the orphanage. “If this particular orphanage and school is such a space, it would need to be explored before sending clients there,” said Glettenberg.
He cautioned that the experience might become voyeuristic and exploitative, which would be uncomfortable for both parties. “The additional stream of funds that visitors could bring to a project might certainly be welcome but one needs to find the balance between how disruptive the visit can become and the benefits. Well organised and professionally handled, this could become a highly enriching experience for both sides.”
Speaking on whether africa220 would package this experience in its itineraries, Glettenberg said it would need to get a first-hand impression and more information before deciding.
Attempts to contact Kaseke for comment proved fruitless.
Sourse: tourismupdate.co.za
