The 66th edition of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair (ZITF), scheduled to take place from April 20 to 25, 2026, in Bulawayo, is poised to be a major national event. This year's premier trade and investment showcase will operate under the theme, 'Connected Economies, Competitive Industries,' signaling its ambition to foster stronger economic ties and boost industrial competitiveness across the region. A significant highlight will be the official opening of the Fair on April 23, 2026, by His Excellency Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, the President of Botswana. This visit was officially confirmed by Information Minister Soda Zhemu during a recent post-Cabinet briefing, emphasizing the regional importance of the ZITF.

The anticipation surrounding the ZITF has already had a substantial impact on Bulawayo's hospitality sector. Reports indicate that hotels and lodges in the city are fully booked well in advance of the event, with hospitality industry players expressing their readiness to accommodate the expected influx of visitors during the five-day exposition. However, this surge in demand has also brought to light concerns regarding accommodation tariffs, as there have been complaints about increased charges during this peak period. Despite these pricing concerns, the hospitality sector is generally expected to benefit significantly from the annual trade showcase.

Grace Guchu-Nkomo, the Bulawayo representative for the Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ), provided an optimistic assessment of the city's preparedness. She noted that discussions and current observations suggest a positive state of readiness, particularly given that Bulawayo is set to host not only the ZITF but also the 46th Independence celebrations, which are scheduled to occur in Maphisa, approximately 118 kilometers from the city. Guchu-Nkomo further confirmed that the three major hotels in Bulawayo are completely booked, awaiting final payments for their reservations. Similarly, lodges and guest houses across the city are reporting full occupancy, also pending final payment processing, underscoring the intense demand for accommodation spurred by these concurrent major events.