Positioning Zimbabwe’s tourism sector for growth

Zimbabwe, a country known for its rich natural beauty and diverse wildlife, is making significant strides in positioning its tourism sector for growth. Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Tongai Mnangagwa, recently shared insights on the country's ambitious plans to boost its tourism economy during an interview at the Africa Trade Indaba. The event, held at the Durban ICC in KwaZulu-Natal, showcased Zimbabwe's commitment to revitalizing its tourism industry following the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic. Mnangagwa highlighted the government's focus on expanding the tourism industry by attracting investments and implementing key initiatives to drive sustainable growth. He emphasized the significant progress Zimbabwe has made in the tourism sector, with a notable increase in visitor numbers post-Covid. The country has seen a 27 percent rise in visitors, surpassing the one million mark to reach one million six hundred visitors. One of the key strategies outlined by Mnangagwa is the development of the Victoria Falls as an economic zone, offering incentives and tax rebates to operators in the region. This initiative aims to stimulate investment and facilitate the growth of businesses in the tourism sector. Additionally, the government has been working on infrastructure development, including the construction of an international cricket arena in Victoria Falls to host major events, such as the World Cup in 2026 and 2027. Partnerships with international organizations, such as the international cricket body, have been pivotal in driving investment and attracting key players to support Zimbabwe's tourism ambitions. Mnangagwa highlighted the collaboration with the Ministry of Sport and the government's holistic approach to fostering sports tourism in the country. He expressed optimism about the positive impact these initiatives will have on Zimbabwe's economy and its people, emphasizing the potential benefits that tourism growth can bring to the local community. In line with the theme of inclusion, Mnangagwa emphasized the importance of ensuring that the benefits of tourism development are shared across all levels of society. He underscored the potential of tourism to drive economic growth and create opportunities for ordinary citizens in Zimbabwe. The Deputy Minister also outlined upcoming events, such as the Africa Gastronomy event scheduled to take place in Victoria Falls. This culinary showcase, spearheaded by the First Lady, aims to celebrate Zimbabwe's cultural heritage and culinary traditions while fostering international partnerships and educational opportunities. Looking ahead, Mnangagwa expressed his commitment to leaving a lasting legacy in the tourism sector, working alongside his colleagues to implement transformative initiatives that will be remembered for years to come. With a focus on sustainable development, inclusive growth, and infrastructure enhancements, Zimbabwe is poised to emerge as a key player in the global tourism landscape, showcasing its natural wonders and cultural richness to the world.