Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Masvingo
ZIMBABWE must harness artificial intelligence (AI) and digital technologies to transform tourism, improve visitor experiences and strengthen the sector’s contribution to the economy, Minister of Higher and Tertiary Education, Innovation, Science and Technology Development Dr Frederick Shava has said.
Speaking at the 2026 Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Scholastic Tourism Conference in Masvingo on Thursday evening, Dr Shava said digital transformation was becoming critical to the competitiveness of tourism destinations.
“Our conference theme, ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence: Redesigning the Future of Tourism,’ aligns seamlessly with the United Nations World Tourism Day 2026 theme, ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,’ affirming that travellers today research, book, navigate and share their experiences almost entirely through digital channels.
“Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping every part of that journey — from personalised recommendations and dynamic pricing to chatbots, predictive analytics, smart destination management and immersive virtual experiences.”
He said Zimbabwe had to ensure it was among countries using AI to attract more tourists, increase the length of stay and diversify tourism revenues.
“Countries and regions that embed digital tools and AI into their tourism value chains are positioned to attract more visitors, extend length of stay, diversify revenue and protect natural and cultural heritage more effectively. Zimbabwe must be among those countries.”
Dr Shava said Government had laid the policy foundation for the digital transformation of tourism through the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), Smart Zimbabwe 2030 Masterplan and National Artificial Intelligence Strategy (2026–2030).
“This strategy covers AI adoption, governance, and capacity development, positioning Zimbabwe to secure economic sovereignty and competitiveness in the global digital economy.”
He said the conference was therefore linked directly to the implementation of the national frameworks.
“The Scholastic Tourism Conference is not merely an academic exercise; it is a practical mechanism to advance the national digital agenda while strengthening a priority economic sector.
“Central to this vision is Heritage-Based Education 5.0, which provides the blueprint for translating theoretical knowledge into tangible solutions.”
Dr Shava said universities and colleges had a key role to play in developing digital solutions for tourism.
“Our institutions of higher learning host a concentration of talent in computer science, engineering, business, hospitality, design and the creative arts — precisely the disciplines needed to reimagine tourism for the digital era.”
He urged institutions to expand tourism-focused AI research and work with local authorities on pilot projects.
“Furthermore, expand research on AI applications in tourism, partner with local authorities to implement pilot projects, and prioritise disciplines that equip graduates with skills in digital design, data science and technology entrepreneurship.”
Bongani Ndlovu