In a significant initiative to bolster the local tourism sector, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry engaged with media professionals in Harare this Monday. This strategic collaboration comes as the country prepares to host the prestigious United Nations Africa Gastronomy Summit and the SADC Summit next month, presenting a golden opportunity to attract a surge of visitors and stimulate economic growth.
Hon. Barbra Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, has advocated for the Zimbabwe Tourism Fund to operate as a standalone entity. “The Zimbabwe Tourism Fund should be separated from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA). According to the Tourism Act, 2% of earnings from tourists should be directed to the fund. Revenue from food outlets and performance venues should contribute to this fund independently, ensuring the ministry can account for it transparently. This fund is crucial for tourism promotion and development,” Minister Rwodzi emphasized. She highlighted the potential of the fund to support infrastructure projects such as improved signage along major highways, expansion of the Zimbabwe International Trade Fair, and road improvements. This move aims to ensure that the revenue generated from tourism is directly reinvested into the sector, fostering sustainable growth and development.
Minister Rwodzi underscored the critical role of the media in shaping public perception and amplifying Zimbabwe’s tourism potential. “Our marketing efforts for Zimbabwe are incomplete without the media. Today’s discussion with the Ministry of Information and media representatives focused on collaborative strategies to market our country effectively,” she stated. “We need to work together to showcase the unique attractions and experiences Zimbabwe has to offer.” Journalists at the event highlighted the mutual benefits of ongoing engagement with the Ministry to effectively promote Zimbabwe’s tourism sector on both local and international stages. “It is crucial to maintain continuous engagement between the Ministry of Tourism and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to market Zimbabwe both locally and internationally,” one journalist noted. Another journalist added, “This engagement provided vital insights into tourism issues raised by the public. As the media, we must accurately tell the story of Zimbabwe’s tourism opportunities.” This collaboration is essential for presenting an accurate and compelling narrative about Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, addressing misconceptions, and positively influencing potential travelers.
Zimbabwe is at a pivotal point in its tourism development, with several key initiatives aimed at boosting the sector. On 31st October 2023, the Ministry announced to the Cabinet that the United Nations Tourism Forum selected Zimbabwe to host the inaugural Africa Regional Tourism Gastronomy Forum from 26th to 28th July 2024, in Victoria Falls City. This selection followed Zimbabwe’s outstanding performance at the 8th Edition of the UNWTO Forum on Gastronomy Tourism in Spain, led by the First Lady, Amai Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa. Through the First Lady’s efforts, UN Tourism is also assisting Zimbabwe in establishing an African tourism gastronomy and culinary center in Victoria Falls. A memorandum of understanding will be signed during the Gastronomy Forum, marking a significant step in promoting Zimbabwe as a premier culinary tourism destination. As part of the preparations for the Gastronomy Forum, national Cookout competitions were held in collaboration with the Ministries of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development, and Women Affairs, Community Small and Medium Enterprises Development.
Additionally, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, through the ZTA and in partnership with the Ministry of Environment and Wild Africa, will host a Tourism and Conservation Round Table on 11 July 2024. This event aims to address sector challenges, identify areas for improvement, and celebrate successes, fostering a sustainable and resilient tourism industry.
The collaboration between the Ministry of Tourism and the media is not only a national strategy but also a key component in enhancing Zimbabwe’s global marketing efforts. The media’s ability to craft compelling narratives and showcase the country’s attractions plays a crucial role in reaching a global audience. High-quality visuals and impactful reporting can effectively highlight Zimbabwe’s unique offerings, from Victoria Falls to its rich cultural heritage. By engaging the media, the Ministry ensures that promotional campaigns are timely and relevant, aligning with global tourism trends. This partnership helps build a positive image of Zimbabwe as a premier travel destination, addressing misconceptions and positively influencing potential travelers.
In his closing remarks, Deputy Minister Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa expressed appreciation for the media’s role in fostering meaningful dialogue and spotlighting tourism’s importance in Zimbabwe. “Your valuable insights have enriched our discussions and provided clarity on the challenges and opportunities ahead. We have discussed the current landscape of Zimbabwean tourism and our government’s commitment to revitalizing this vital sector. Strategic initiatives, including infrastructure development and sustainable tourism practices, aim to ensure Zimbabwe remains a top-tier destination on the global tourism map,” he stated. He added, “Representing our nation through positive and accurate reporting is crucial. We must build a solid and inviting image of Zimbabwe’s tourism. Your work is instrumental in shaping perceptions and inspiring confidence in Zimbabwe as a safe, welcoming, and vibrant destination.”
Zimbabwe’s concerted efforts to elevate its tourism sector through strategic initiatives and media collaboration highlight a clear path to becoming a leading destination in Africa and globally. Enhancing infrastructure, including roads, airports, and tourist facilities, is crucial. Improved accessibility and comfort for tourists can significantly increase visitor satisfaction and repeat visits. Aggressively marketing unique attractions such as Victoria Falls, the Great Zimbabwe Ruins, and diverse wildlife reserves can attract international tourists looking for unique experiences. Utilizing social media, digital platforms, and influencers to showcase Zimbabwe’s beauty and cultural richness can reach a broader, tech-savvy audience. High-quality content, including videos and virtual tours, can captivate potential tourists and drive interest. Emphasizing sustainable and eco-friendly tourism practices can appeal to the growing number of eco-conscious travelers. Promoting conservation efforts and sustainable tourism initiatives can enhance Zimbabwe’s image as a responsible and forward-thinking destination. Highlighting Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and culinary diversity can attract tourists interested in immersive and authentic experiences. Hosting international events like the Africa Gastronomy Forum can position Zimbabwe as a top destination for cultural and culinary tourism. Encouraging collaborations between the government and private sector can lead to innovative tourism products and services. These partnerships can also help in mobilizing resources and expertise necessary for large-scale tourism projects. Maintaining a strong relationship with local and international media ensures that positive stories and developments in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector are consistently shared. Accurate and engaging reporting can shape a positive global perception and attract more visitors.
By implementing these strategies, Zimbabwe can significantly enhance its global tourism profile, drawing more visitors and contributing to the nation’s economic growth. The Ministry of Tourism’s proactive approach, combined with media collaboration, positions Zimbabwe to achieve remarkable success in the competitive global tourism industry.
