Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe, Zimpapers Business Hub
THE Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry’s annual Meet and Greet festive season campaign has proven to be a resounding success, recording positive reception across all major entry points into the country.
The initiative, which welcomes returning diasporans and international visitors during the festive season, was launched in Harare mid-week before spreading to Bulawayo, Plumtree Border Post and Victoria Falls, reinforcing Zimbabwe’s image as a warm, welcoming and culturally rich destination.
In Bulawayo on Friday, the campaign attracted scores of travellers, among them renowned South African musician DJ Tira, who arrived through Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport. DJ Tira was presented with the iconic National Fabric, symbolising Zimbabwe’s hospitality and cultural pride.
Providing an update on the exercise, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry said:
“Heralding the Festive Season with warmth and culture, the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry is hosting its annual Meet & Greet at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport and Plumtree Border Post, welcoming International Tourists and Diasporians with smiles and the symbolic National Fabric.”
At Plumtree Border Post, the campaign underscored Zimbabwe’s growing niche tourism segments, particularly Religious and Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.
“The Plumtree Border post highlighted Zimbabwe’s growing niche tourism, attracting Religious Tourists and delegates from the Africa for Medical Education (AFME) Conference, showcasing the expansion of MICE and Religious Tourism.
“The vibrant interactions and cultural exchange reinforced Zimbabwe’s appeal as a welcoming, accessible and diverse Tourism Destination.”
The Victoria Falls phase of the campaign also recorded notable success, with visitors arriving to experience one of the world’s natural wonders and the country’s broader tourism offerings.
“The exercise welcomed tour groups, families and first-time travellers eager to experience Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe’s diverse Tourism offerings.”
The festive season momentum was further strengthened by improved air connectivity and diversified tourism experiences.
“The season was further boosted by Air Tanzania’s inaugural Dar es Salaam–Victoria Falls–Cape Town flight, enhancing Regional connectivity, while visits from Religious Tourists highlighted the growth of the Religious Tourism Cluster, reinforcing Victoria Falls as a dynamic, multi-experience destination under the Experience Zimbabwe brand.”
The Meet and Greet campaign continues to play a key role in promoting Zimbabwe as a preferred festive season destination, while strengthening cultural exchange and reaffirming the country’s commitment to hospitality excellence.
