Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe [email protected]
TOURISM stakeholders have been urged to take pride in the growing list of international accolades that Zimbabwe continues to earn, saying the honours have elevated the country’s profile on the global tourism stage and should be aggressively leveraged to market the destination.
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Dr Takaruza Munyanyiwa, made the call during an oversubscribed consultation meeting on the National Tourism Sector Strategy (NTSS) 2026-2030 in Bulawayo on Tuesday.
“They are yours, be proud of the accolades. Sometimes I feel that as stakeholders we are in the terraces. This is our thing, we must run with it in your marketing and strategies,” said Dr Munyanyiwa.
“Let’s see that hunger to ride on these accolades. Let us harness our collective wisdom, resources, and energy to build our sector.
“Together, we will shape a vibrant, resilient, and globally competitive tourism sector that uplifts communities, strengthens our economy and reaffirms Zimbabwe’s place on the world tourism map.”
His remarks come as Zimbabwe continues to receive prestigious international recognition, with the accolades placing the country firmly on the global tourism map and enhancing its visibility among international travellers and investors.
Over the past year, Zimbabwe won the Gold Award in the Internet and Media Category at the prestigious 2026 Chinese Tourist Welcome (CTW) Awards, recognising the country’s innovative destination marketing initiatives targeting the Chinese market.
Zimbabwe also strengthened its international standing after being recognised by Forbes Magazine as the Best Country to Visit in 2025, a development hailed as a resounding affirmation of the nation’s tourism revival and growing international confidence in Brand Zimbabwe.
On the other hand, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi was named Africa’s Tourism Minister of the Year at ITB Berlin 2026, reflecting growing global confidence in the country’s tourism sector.
The growing international recognition has significantly boosted Zimbabwe’s destination brand, reinforcing its competitiveness in the global tourism marketplace and providing stakeholders with a strong platform to attract more visitors, investment and tourism business.
The National Tourism Sector Strategy (2026-2030) is expected to provide a roadmap for accelerating tourism growth, enhancing competitiveness and increasing the sector’s contribution to economic development.
The consultations brought together Government, the private sector, interest groups and other tourism stakeholders to develop a roadmap that will guide the industry’s growth over the next five years, anchored on improved air connectivity, regional integration, destination competitiveness and sustainable tourism development.
