Phalaborwa Councillors Embark on Learning Visit to Victoria Falls to Cement Twinning Agreement

VICTORIA FALLS, Zimbabwe – A delegation of councillors from the Ba-Phalaborwa Municipality in South Africa is currently in the Wetland City of Victoria Falls on a pivotal learning visit, aimed at solidifying a groundbreaking twinning agreement between the two local authorities.

The visit is a core part of the broader Trans-Limpopo Initiative, a strategic partnership designed to create strong cross-border linkages and develop economic networks. The initiative aims to catapult the entire Matabeleland region in Zimbabwe and South Africa’s Limpopo Province to new heights of shared socio-economic prosperity.

The delegation’s agenda focuses on sharing best practices, exploring areas of mutual cooperation, and finalising the framework for formalising the strategic “marriage” between the two municipalities. The partnership extends beyond the two towns, encompassing Zimbabwe’s Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, and Bulawayo provinces on one end, and South Africa’s Limpopo Province on the other.

“We are excited to host our counterparts from Phalaborwa and to showcase the unique opportunities that Victoria Falls offers,” said a representative from the host city. “This twinning is based on a shared vision for growth, and such face-to-face engagements are crucial for turning that vision into a tangible action plan.”

Areas of cooperation under discussion include:

• Tourism Development: Creating integrated tourism packages that leverage Victoria Falls’ status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Ba-Phalaborwa’s gateway position to the Kruger National Park.

• Economic and Trade Ties: Facilitating easier cross-border trade and investment by building networks between local businesses and chambers of commerce.

• Cultural and Knowledge Exchange: Promoting shared learning in municipal governance, urban planning, and sustainable development, particularly in managing a renowned tourist destination.

The ongoing visit by the Phalaborwa councillors marks a significant milestone, moving the Trans-Limpopo Initiative from concept to reality and paving the way for an official signing ceremony that will formally unite the two regions in a partnership for future growth.