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“Of these, 11 413 were locals and 11 108 were foreigners,” she said.
Ms Washaya Moyo said there was also a marked improvement in tourist arrivals at the Hwange Main Camp and the Zambezi National Park in Victoria Falls.
At the Main Camp, Ms Washaya Moyo said 12 199 visited in 2009, 18 819 in 2010, 27 830 in 2011 and 32 483 last year. At Zambezi, she said 47 450 tourists visited in 2009, 58 598 in 2010, 56 475 in 2011 and 70 980 last year.
“Total percentage contributions to these three attractions were locals 53 percent and foreigners 47 percent. At the Hwange Main Camp locals constituted 64 percent and foreigners recorded 36 percent. At the Rainforest 51 percent were locals and 49 percent foreigners and at Zambezi, 56 percent locals and 44 percent foreigners,” she said.
“Aggressive marketing which included participation in local exhibitions and shows, social responsibility including working with disadvantaged members of the community like orphans and promotions for schools at discounted rates and price differences between locals and foreigners contributed to an increase in locals at these places especially at the Rainforest,” she said.
Ms Washaya Moyo said the total percentage increase in foreign visitors could be attributed to the changing perceptions about Zimbabwe as a suitable tourist destination and participation by Zimparks at regional and international exhibitions and fairs.
Online Reporter