Nyachowa Falls’ facelift overdue
AS scores of people continue to flock the majestic Nyachowa Falls in Vumba with domestic tourism on a great rebound, hoteliers, stakeholders and traditional leaders have called for transparency and accountability in the management of the site.
The falls, situated 12km along the Mutare-Burma Valley Road, add to the diverse picturesque natural heritage tourism products found in Manicaland.
The site, despite tens of people who frequent the place, particularly during weekends, requires urgent rehabilitation as we gear up towards community-based tourism.
Community-based tourism is the participation and involvement of the local population living near tourism destinations.
Among other goals, community-based tourism is meant to achieve sustainable social, cultural, environmental and economic development in order to improve the living conditions of local people without damaging the environment.
No doubt, Nyachowa Falls has changed the face of Lower Vumba. However, more needs to be done. The falls are surrounded by trees that include Waterberry, Albizia and Strangler Fig.
Birds such as the White browed robin chat, African Pied wagtail, Miombo Double collard sunbird, African yellow white eye, Jameson’s fire finch, Yellow bellied waxbill, Streaky headed canary and many others provide soothing music.
Stakeholders interviewed this week called for the expansion and rehabilitation of the site by adding critical components such as a swimming pool, ablution facilities, ample parking, rehabilitation of trees and forests, as well as a gazebo.
With a visitor parting with US$2 as the entrance fee, people have to park their vehicles and walk for about a kilometre uphill to reach the falls.
Stakeholders have also called for transparency and accountability in the management of funds so that proceeds can help in rehabilitating the area and empowering the local communities.
During a recent visit, The Manica Post learnt that a visitor could negotiate for a lesser fee.
Eastern Highlands Experience chairperson, Mr William Chatigu said: “The Nyachowa Falls is a majestic site that belongs to the community and no individual should be allowed to control it and benefit from it alone at the expense of others.
“Just like Victoria Falls, everything should be systematic and there is need for a uniformed approach so that the community benefits from the site. There is need to develop the site, starting from accessibility.
“Activities to complement the falls such as horse riding, hiking, among other things, should be initiated.
“Less privileged children from Chigodora and surrounding areas should be sent to school through proceeds from the falls. There is really need of strict reinforcement to ensure that no individuals benefit solely from the Nyachowa Community Project,” said Mr Chatigu.
Acting Chief Zimunya said the need for a facelift is urgent.
“There is also an urgent need for accountability. The wardens collecting the entrance fees should issue receipts to visitors, which I believe is currently not being done. It is high time for the site to expand to restore its glamour and splendour.
“Nyachowa Falls is a treasure and there is need to erect infrastructure like ablution facilities and chalets.
“We have also noted with great concern that the place is now being misused by some sections of the society who are now gratifying their spiritual concerns by collecting the water from the falls and stashing it in bottles.
“We have learnt that some people are frequenting the place with bottles as they believe that the water from the falls has healing properties,” he said.
Tourism expert, Mr Willard Madhombiro said: “Nyachowa Falls is quite a refreshing natural spar.
“The starting point is to channel some of the funds to address issues of accessibility and marketing. Progress has been stagnant.
“Its visibility on the social media platforms, websites, print and electronic media should be improved.
“The idea is to create awareness. Upgrading the site will also see visitors benefiting from health and wellness. Everyone needs an equilibrium that comes through harmony of peace, soul, mind and the spirit.
“The falls have a high spiritual connection and to be productive in life, one needs to be strong spiritually,” said Mr Madhombiro.