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The Herald, December 29, 2005
THE Parks and Wildlife Management Authority expects to rake in more than $15 billion this festive season from its camps and lodges, which are fully booked for the period.
For the first time in two years, the authority has managed to attract tourists from domestic, regional and international markets – a scenario that has been attributed to effective marketing strategies and realisation by traditional clients from other countries that Zimbabwe remains one of the safest and exciting tourist destinations.
Tourism and Environment Minister, Cde Francis Nhema said the situation in the tourism sector was improving owing to both the Look East Policy and other marketing strategies that were now paying off dividends.
He said another factor was that Zimbabwe’s tourism sector had so much to showcase in the form of wildlife, forestry, aquatic and other scenic beauties that include the magnificent Victoria Falls, Matobo Hills and Mana Pools.
“It is good to note that our country is irresistible mainly because of the natural beauty imbued in its environs. “We welcome all our visitors with open hands and we do appreciate their coming.
“They will surely enjoy themselves because we have reserved fuel for them particularly in all our National Parks to be able to be mobile all the time,” Cde Nhema said.
He said other holiday resorts were also hives of activity with some hotels recording higher numbers of bookings compared to last year. Kariba has seen visitors come to view the majestic lake, which is the sacred Nyaminyami spirit.
“Zimbabwe’s tourism sector caters for diverse people with a varied understanding of tourism. We embrace all those and were never at one time selective as to who should not,” Cde Nhema said.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
- The growing interest in tourism is due to its veritable potential to be among the top sectors to grow the economy.
- The more growth there is in the tourism industry, the more opportunities there are, with employment imperative to see young industry leaders raised up.
- The healthy state of the tourism industry is changing the face of society in tangible ways.
- With international visitors flocking to our country, we look at tourism with fresh eyes and gain appreciation for what we have right where we live.
- The current international travel restrictions as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic, has also opened way for locals to explore and enjoy local tourism.g
Online Reporter