tawandamusarurwa
Charles Mavhunga
AS Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to grow in leaps and bounds, President Mnangagwa’s assumption of the SADC chairmanship is going to be a milestone moment that propels the industry into a new era of growth and cooperation.
With the country’s breathtaking natural resorts, rich cultural heritage and infectious Ubuntu spirit, Zimbabwe is poised to become the crown jewel of African tourism.
And now, under President Mnangagwa’s visionary leadership, SADC is set to experience a renaissance of regional collaboration, peace and development, cementing the region’s position as a premier tourist destination.
This auspicious development is a clarion call to the world to come and experience the warmth, beauty and diversity of Zimbabwe and SADC.
Leadership
The SADC Tourism Programme 2020-2030, which was approved by the Joint meeting of Ministers responsible for Environment, Natural Resources and Tourism in Arusha, Tanzania, in 2019 aims to fast-track sustainable growth of the tourism sector in the SADC region.
Through his leadership, President Mnangagwa is going to champion SADC conventions that suit the tourism sector, including the SADC Protocol on Tourism, which promotes sustainable tourism development, as well as the SADC Regional Tourism Strategy, which enhances regional cooperation and coordination in tourism development.
His administration’s emphasis on investment in tourism infrastructure and commitment to ensuring peace and stability in the region has created a conducive environment for tourism growth, showcasing Zimbabwe’s capabilities as a premier tourist destination and inspiring a new era of cooperation and growth in the SADC region.
Tourism growth
Under President Mnangagwa’s chairmanship, SADC can expect to see increased focus on tourism development, leading to economic growth and job creation.
As SADC chairperson, President Mnangagwa is poised to replicate these success stories in the region, leveraging tourism as a key driver of economic growth, job creation and sustainable development.
Through prioritising tourism development, SADC can unlock new opportunities for economic diversification, infrastructure development and community empowerment, ultimately contributing to the region’s prosperity and competitiveness on the global stage.
Regional cooperation
The new SADC chairperson will foster regional cooperation, promoting a unified approach to tourism development and marketing.
In the SADC region, the SADC Tourism Programme aims to promote sustainable tourism development and cooperation among member states.
Through leveraging these initiatives, Zimbabwe can benefit from increased regional cooperation, sharing best practices and resources with neighbouring countries to enhance its tourism offerings and competitiveness.
For instance, Zimbabwe can collaborate with Botswana and Zambia to develop transfrontier conservation areas, or partner with South Africa to create a regional tourism corridor, showcasing the region’s unique cultural and natural heritage.
International recognition
President Mnangagwa’s assumption of the SADC chairmaship at the 44th Summit will significantly enhance Zimbabwe’s international reputation and recognition, attracting more tourists and investment, as the country takes centre stage in regional and global affairs.
This increased visibility will showcase Zimbabwe’s rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife, making it an even more attractive destination for international tourists.
In addition, President Mnangagwa’s leadership role in SADC will provide a platform to promote Zimbabwe’s investment opportunities, infrastructure development and economic growth strategies to a global audience, attracting foreign direct investment and boosting economic development.
As a result, Zimbabwe will become a hub for international conferences, events, and tourism, generating significant revenue and job creation opportunities.
Tourism branding
President Mnangagwa’s leadership will help create a strong, recognisable tourism brand for SADC, showcasing the region’s diverse attractions, such as the majestic Victoria Falls, and the vibrant cultures of Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa.
Through leveraging President Mnangagwa’s leadership and SADC’s collective resources, the region will develop a distinctive tourism brand that highlights its unique selling propositions, such as the world’s largest waterfall, the Big Five game reserves and the ancient rock art of Matobo Hills.
This branding initiative will increase tourist arrivals and revenue and also create jobs, stimulate local economies and promote cultural exchange, ultimately positioning SADC as a premier tourist destination in the global market.
Economic diversification, community development and regional integration will be significantly bolstered under President Mnangagwa’s leadership, as SADC prioritises tourism to reduce dependence on other industries, promoting economic diversification and resilience.
Through leveraging tourism growth, local communities will benefit from improved livelihoods and cultural heritage promotion, akin to the positive impact of tourism on indigenous communities in New Zealand.
Moreover, President Mnangagwa’s assumption of the chairmanship will strengthen SADC’s regional integration efforts, promoting a united approach to tourism development and economic growth, similar to the European Union’s regional tourism strategy.
This integrated approach will enable the region to capitalise on its diverse attractions, create jobs, stimulate local economies and promote cultural exchange, ultimately positioning the region as a premier tourist destination and driving sustainable economic growth, as seen in successful regional tourism initiatives like the Visit Europe.
*Charles Mavhunga has co-authored textbooks on business enterprising skills. He is currently studying for a PhD in Management at Bindura University. He can be contacted on [email protected] or Cell: 0772989816
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