Abstract
Lately, significant attention has been given to the impact of extreme weather events. However, there is limited documentation on how extreme weather events such as tropical cyclones are impacting tourism and heritage resources in the Global South. This study responds to this knowledge gap by focusing on documenting the impact of tropical cyclone Idai (which hit Zimbabwe on 15 March 2019) on tourism in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe. The mixed method approach was used for data collection and included purposively sampled in-depth interviews with local operators and other stakeholders, an online survey and Geographic Information Systems. The findings indicated that the Chimanimani district has diverse tourist attractions, including natural, archaeological, cultural and scenic sites, which were disrupted by the cyclone. Among the top attractions are the Chimanimani Mountains bordering Mozambique and Zimbabwe, many curves, Tessa’s Pool, as well as Bridal Veil and Digby’s Falls. Although there were mixed responses concerning the damage to some attractions, there was consensus on the damage to roads, some lodges, bridges, ICTs and power and water supply systems. Among the recommendations for a quick tourism recovery are matters relating to the restoration of infrastructure and selected damaged attractions, as well as improved promotion of the area.
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Nhamo, G., Dube, K., Saurombe, T. (2021). Impact of Tropical Cyclone Idai on Tourism Attractions and Related Infrastructure in Chimanimani, Zimbabwe. In: Nhamo, G., Chikodzi, D. (eds) Cyclones in Southern Africa. Sustainable Development Goals Series. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-74303-1_16
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