Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, Zimpapers Arts and Entertainment Hub
THERE is a growing synergy between the nation’s creative and tourism sectors, and Napoleon Nyanhi, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ), has been appointed to the Board of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).
The appointment of Nyanhi, a seasoned veteran with deep roots in Zimbabwe’s arts, culture, and media landscape, has been met with strong approval, particularly from his home base at the NACZ.
The Council released a statement declaring: “Congratulations to our CEO, Mr Napoleon Nyanhi, on his appointment to the Board of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority. This role highlights the vital link between arts, culture, and tourism. We look forward to the powerful synergy and national impact ahead.”
Nyanhi brings an impressive track record of leadership and innovation to the ZTA board. His extensive experience includes pivotal roles such as Managing Director of Jacaranda Culture and Media Corporation, Executive Director of the prestigious National Arts Merit Awards (NAMA), and Producer of the widely popular talent search television phenomenon, Dreamstar Zimbabwe. His expertise further extends into media management, having served as Production Manager at CMedia Africa, Founding Station Manager of Capitalk FM, and Programming Manager at Star FM.
Since taking the helm at NACZ, Nyanhi has overseen significant strides for the national arts body. A landmark achievement under his leadership came earlier this year (2024) with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between NACZ and the National Arts Council of South Africa (NACSA). This agreement paves the way for concrete collaboration and partnership on areas of mutual interest, aimed at promoting and developing the arts and culture sectors in both neighbouring nations – a testament to his vision for strategic growth and international cultural exchange.
Nyanhi’s practical experience is bolstered by a robust academic foundation. He holds degrees and certificates from a diverse range of esteemed institutions across the globe, including Africa University (Zimbabwe), Clark Atlanta University (USA), the University of the Witwatersrand (South Africa), and the University of Westminster (UK). Most recently, he enhanced his governance credentials by attaining a Master’s degree in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance from Midlands State University (Zimbabwe).
His appointment is widely seen as a deliberate step towards strengthening the intrinsic connection between Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage and artistic vibrancy and its tourism appeal. His unique perspective, forged through decades of creating, promoting, and managing cultural content and institutions, is expected to be invaluable to the ZTA as it seeks to diversify Zimbabwe’s tourism offering and market the nation’s unique identity more effectively on the global stage.
The arts community and tourism sector alike will be watching with keen interest to see how Nyanhi leverages his vast experience, strategic mindset, and passion for Zimbabwean culture to foster the “powerful synergy” anticipated by the NACZ, ultimately driving greater national impact through this vital confluence of arts and tourism. – Follow on X @MbuleloMpofu
