China-Africa Cooperation: Chinese-funded airport expansion boosts tourism in Zimbabwe

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03:06

Zimbabwe's famous Victoria Falls has long attracted visitors from around the world to the country's remote northwest. Now, thanks to the expansion of the area's international airport, it's easier than ever to travel to this stunning waterfall. CGTN's Li Jianhua has more from Zimbabwe.

A breathtaking view of the Victoria Falls from above. Zimbabwe's dry season means the sound of the waterfalls is unmistakable. It's winter time here, but that doesn't stop visitors from coming by the thousands to marvel over this world wonder.

"Welcome to the Victoria Falls Hotel, Duly is my name."

Duly Chitimbire has been working in Victoria Falls for decades, welcoming travellers from almost everywhere. He said the number of tourists coming to the city has been on the rise.

DULY CHITIMBIRE HEAD CONCIERGE "Before the airport was expanded, we had seven, (so) we added three - so that they can cover all these flights - some come a bit early, and some come a bit late. So we need more manpower (so that) we can cover up for the whole day for the whole flights."

Though this is a slow season, it could still get busy for Duly. He said they have to handle - on average - 120 guests each day. And he attributes all of this to the airport['s expansion. It was completed in 2016 with China's assistance. The upgraded airport now handles 1.5 million passengers per year, up from 500-thousand.

WEI WEI, ENGINEER CHINA JIANGSU INTERNATIONAL "The old airport is now the domestic terminal. Its facilities and furnishings were all very old when we first came, and some of the rooftops were leaking. I should say it was easy to work here - both the local government and the civil aviation ministry gave us full support."

Along with the airport's expansion comes more passenger aircraft - both large and small ones can fit in which has spurred the town's tourism development.

SIMBARASHE GOMO RESIDENT ENGINEER "We have seen the number of airlines coming to this destination, which is also - what I call - a fitter output to the local tourism industry, our hotels. People are visiting the rainforest; people are visiting the falls; people are visiting our national park, because of the new airlines coming in."

Regardless, Zimbabwe is still one of the few countries that doesn't have a currency of its own.

LI JIANHUA VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE "The airport's expansion has increased passenger capacity, as the new runway is capable of accommodating the world's largest passenger aircraft. However, as more tourists flock to this very small town, its commodity prices have gone up, and many believe its service industry may need an upgrade. LI JIANHUA, CGTN, VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE."