Zimbabwe is rolling out the red carpet for its Tourism Month, kicking off September with a vibrant slate of events that showcase the country’s flourishing tourism sector. Announced by Hon. B. Rwodzi, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, this year’s celebrations are set to captivate both local and international audiences, culminating in a grand World Tourism Day event on September 27.
In alignment with the global observance of World Tourism Day, established by the United Nations Tourism (formerly UNWTO) in 1980, Zimbabwe is seizing the opportunity to highlight the transformative power of tourism. The theme for this year’s World Tourism Day, “Tourism and Peace,” will be central to the month’s activities, emphasizing tourism’s role in fostering global understanding and harmony.
The tourism sector in Zimbabwe is experiencing a remarkable resurgence. Recent statistics reveal a 27% increase in international arrivals, with 751,483 visitors in the first half of 2024 compared to 592,567 during the same period last year. Tourism receipts have also seen a robust 24% increase, reaching US$493 million, up from US$398 million. This growth underscores tourism’s critical role in Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing approximately 5.7% of GDP and 3.5% of national employment.
This momentum is supported by significant investments in tourism infrastructure, including improvements to airports and road networks, positioning Zimbabwe to achieve its target of a USD5 billion tourism economy by 2025. Tourism Month offers a dynamic platform to showcase these advancements and celebrate the sector’s achievements.
The festivities commence with the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo from September 11 to 13. This premier event will attract a diverse array of exhibitors and attendees from around the world, presenting an excellent opportunity to explore Zimbabwe’s rich tourism offerings. Additional events throughout the month include a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) Master Class, a Tourism Investment Forum, a Gastronomy Hub, and educational initiatives aimed at enriching the tourism sector.
On September 19, the Tourism Symposium at Lupane State University will delve into the theme of “Tourism and Peace,” exploring how tourism contributes to global and national stability. This will be followed by a Sports Tourism Tournament in Gokwe Kabuyani Constituency on September 21, aimed at promoting the synergy between sports and tourism.
The grand finale of Tourism Month will be the World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27, held at the picturesque Gandavaroyi Gorge in Gokwe Gumunyu Constituency. This year’s event will be hosted by Midlands Province, continuing the Ministry’s tradition of rotating the celebrations among different provinces to ensure widespread participation and equitable distribution of tourism benefits.
Minister Rwodzi’s enthusiastic invitation to all Zimbabweans and visitors alike underscores the inclusive spirit of this year’s celebrations. “Let’s come and celebrate together for the good of our Nation,” he urges, reflecting the collective effort needed to advance Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.
With a calendar full of engaging events and a strategic focus on growth and sustainability, Zimbabwe’s Tourism Month 2024 promises to be a resounding success, celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage and its pivotal role in the global tourism landscape.
