Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe
THE City of Bulawayo has commenced an ambitious city-wide data collection exercise, running from June 2 to July 25 this year, to inform the development of a comprehensive Tourism and Hospitality Development Plan.
This strategic initiative seeks to transform Bulawayo into a competitive and sustainable tourism hub.
The survey targets a broad spectrum of players within the tourism and hospitality sector, including hotels, lodges, guest houses, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), and event venues.
Bulawayo town clerk, Mr Christopher Dube, said in a notice that the exercise was designed to gather vital statistics and insights to shape the city’s future tourism roadmap.
“The City of Bulawayo is undertaking comprehensive research to develop a Tourism and Hospitality Development Plan aimed at enhancing the sector’s growth and sustainability,” said Mr Dube.
The data collection will cover key variables such as service offerings and amenities, visitor demographics and trends, city permits, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority licenses, Tourism Board affiliation, hospitality ratings, employee numbers, room details (number, types, prices, capacity, occupancy rates), conference room specifics (number, booking price, maximum capacity, occupancy rates), and tenant or owner information.
Mr Dube explained that the survey will provide a comprehensive snapshot of the sector’s operational landscape, enabling the local authority to identify service gaps, monitor compliance, and strengthen Bulawayo’s digital tourism footprint.
The local authority is urging all operators and stakeholders in the hospitality sector to participate fully, as the results will directly influence policy direction, infrastructure investment, and the city’s tourism marketing efforts.
This initiative will also enable Bulawayo to effectively profile the sector for both domestic and international investors, aligning with national tourism strategies and digital platforms.
With its rich historical heritage, vibrant arts culture, and iconic landmarks such as the Bulawayo Railway Museum and the National Art Gallery, Bulawayo remains a promising yet underexploited tourist destination.
As the city strengthens its position as a regional business hub, the integration of commerce and culture is expected to drive sustainable economic growth, create employment opportunities, and stimulate local enterprise.
Business strategist, Mr Honest Ngwenya, said the move reflects a growing awareness among local authorities of tourism’s role in economic development.
“This kind of targeted data collection is critical. It signals that Bulawayo is serious about creating a business-friendly tourism environment. If used effectively, the data can help attract investors, improve service standards, and guide meaningful infrastructure development,” said Mr Ngwenya.
He further emphasised the importance of ensuring the data informs tangible action plans, adding, “What’s important now is implementation. The Tourism and Hospitality Development Plan must be practical, inclusive, and continuously reviewed based on feedback and measurable outcomes.”
