Richard Branson’s incredible Zimbabwe expedition

Founder of the Virgin Group, Richard Branson, arrived in Zimbabwe on 30 June with budget airline Fastjet.

Banson’s visit has been closely watched, with much speculation around the reasons for his visit to the country.

Before heading down to Africa last month, Branson’s new boutique hotel property, Son Bunyola opened its doors. The new 26-room luxury hotel is located on the Balearic island of Mallorca.

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CONSERVATION IN ZIMBABWE

Some of the wildlife conservation projects Branson spent time at during his trip to Zimbabwe include the Zambezi Elephant Fund and Wilderness Destinations Ruckomechi Camp, owned by The Rise Fund, a charity he co-founded.

In fact, the billionaire’s trip was made possible by friends involved in wildlife conservation projects in the country. He thanked the respective parties.

“It was delightful joining Tim (Evans) and his son, Wilf, my sister, Vanessa, my daughter-in-law, Isabella, and a wonderful group of conservationists to camp and canoe down the magnificent river. We had to watch out for enormous crocodiles, buffalo and hippos that could accidentally tip over our canoes. Thankfully, we had brilliant guides,” Branson said on his blog.

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BRANDON’S OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

Branson posted pics of himself and other members of his travelling party enjoying a range of activities during his recent trip to Zimbabwe.

The celebrity entrepreneur can be seen canoeing on the Zambezi River, enjoying sunset with family members and viewing elephants.

This is not the first time the knighted billionaire has holidayed in Zimbabwe. Branson and family members have previously enjoyed holidays in Zimbabwe some years ago.

“Many years ago, when Holly and Sam were kids, my family had the pleasure of travelling down the Zambezi River. Mum and Dad came along, and we even managed to get Joan in a canoe! It was an extraordinarily beautiful trip, going through the Mana Pools and seeing some incredible wildlife,” he wrote.

BRANSON’S INFLUENCE

Branson is one of the founding members of The Elders, a group formed by the late President Nelson Mandela.

Founded in 2007 by Nelson Mandela, The Elders is a group of independent leaders who work for peace, justice, human rights, and a sustainable planet. The Elders urged Zimbabweans to put the national interest first and to abstain from violence and intimidation during Zimbabwe’s 2018 election.

Branson’s visit to Zimbabwe ahead of the country’s general elections next month can be seen as a sign of optimism and a vote of confidence in the country.