Online Reporter
Takunda Gambiza
Herald Reporter
THE Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) today signed a Memorandum of Agreement with FBC Insurance in Harare aimed at providing public liability and all-risk insurance cover for hospitality businesses as part of efforts to strengthen risk management and boost confidence in the country’s tourism sector.
The agreement, witnessed by Tourism and Hospitality Industry Permanent Secretary Dr Taka Munyanyiwa, will see HAZ members accessing insurance cover through their subscriptions, protecting businesses, staff and guests from potential financial losses arising from accidents, fire and other risks associated with tourism operations.
Dr Munyanyiwa said public liability insurance was critical for safeguarding tourism businesses and their clients from financial losses caused by third-party claims.
“Public liability insurance is critical for the tourism sector for protecting our businesses and individuals from potentially serious financial losses arising from third-party activities,” he said.
He added that Zimbabwe’s tourism industry needed to strengthen compliance with international standards to remain competitive.
“Tourism business is very international and we really have to be compliant so that we protect our customers and our businesses,” said Dr Munyanyiwa.
He said the partnership between HAZ and FBC Insurance would provide a safety net for operators in a sector exposed to various operational risks.
“This partnership is not just a formal agreement. It is a direct response to the unique risks faced by the hospitality industry and will ensure peace of mind for businesses, staff and guests,” he said.
HAZ president Mrs Emmah Kativhu said the agreement marked a major milestone for the hospitality and tourism industry.
“This initiative is not just an insurance policy; it represents our commitment to ensuring that the businesses that form the backbone of our tourism industry can operate with confidence and security,” she said.
Mrs Kativhu said simplifying access to insurance would help strengthen resilience within the sector.
“By simplifying access to insurance coverage, we are reinforcing the resilience and sustainability of our sector in these ever-evolving times,” she said.
FBC Insurance managing director Mrs Alice Shumba said the partnership was designed to make insurance easily accessible to hospitality businesses.
“You don’t have to go from pillar to post trying to understand where you can get what to comply and where you can get what to have a smooth operating business,” she said.
Mrs Shumba said the product would allow operators to secure comprehensive cover at an affordable cost.
“The initiative will help align Zimbabwe’s hospitality sector with global safety and risk management standards while improving visitor confidence,” she said.
