Our mobile clinic went to Zimbabwe’s biggest tourism expo, and young people’s health went with it.
From 9 to 12 September 2026, My Age Africa set up its stand at the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Masvingo, Zimbabwe’s premier tourism showcase. This year’s theme, “Unlocking Tourism Investment Opportunities and Adventure Tourism in Masvingo Province – Gateway to the Great Zimbabwe National Monument,” brought investors, tour operators, government officials and visitors from across the country and beyond to our home province.
So why would a youth-led sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) organisation exhibit at a tourism expo? Because health and development go hand in hand. A thriving tourism sector depends on healthy, informed and empowered young people, who are the workforce, entrepreneurs and hosts of tomorrow. Wherever people gather, we want youth health and rights to be part of the conversation.
At our stand, the My Age Africa team showcased our work in youth-led SRHR advocacy, sharing how we equip young people with the information, services and confidence they need to make decisions about their health and their futures. Visitors learned about our peer education, community dialogues and advocacy work in Masvingo and beyond.
We also brought our mobile clinic right onto the expo grounds. Throughout the four days, many visitors walked through its doors to access SRH services in a friendly, confidential setting. Finding health services in such an unexpected space made it easier for people to seek care, proof that bringing services closer to people makes a real difference.
Beyond the services, the expo was about connection. We networked with exhibitors from many sectors, started conversations about new partnerships and met people who share our passion for youth empowerment and community wellbeing. These relationships will help us reach more young people and explore creative ways to bring health into tourism and economic development spaces.
We are grateful to every visitor who stopped by, every partner who shared ideas with us and the organisers who made room for health at a tourism event. Putting youth health and rights on the map, literally at the gateway to one of Zimbabwe’s greatest heritage sites, is a moment we will remember.
Look out for the My Age Africa mobile clinic at the next community event near you!
