Business Reporter
Manchester United co-owner and INEOS billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe has praised Zimbabwe as a “magnificent” and “very safe” destination, following a visit to the country to celebrate his birthday.
Sir Jim’s visit was publicised by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality, which warmly welcomed the British billionaire via social media. The ministry highlighted his presence as part of a growing list of A-list figures throwing their weight behind the country. Permanent secretary in the Ministry of Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Nick Mangwana, also celebrated the visit on X, posting: “MAN U OWNER SCORES IN ZIM.”
Speaking from a golf course, widely understood to be in the Victoria Falls area, Sir Jim expressed his profound appreciation for the local environment and wildlife.
“The course is marvellous, it’s been thoroughly enjoyable,” Sir Jim said. “The nice thing about golf is it takes you to some really interesting places… but this is very special because the trees are magnificent and I love nature. The scenery was magnificent.”
The billionaire noted the tranquillity of the location, remarking that it was “very quiet” with few people around, though those he did encounter were “very courteous and friendly.” He also revelled in the unique experience of sharing the fairway with local wildlife.
“You’ve got animals on the golf course, so you’ve got impala and warthog and bushbuck and it’s just one with nature really,” he added, noting that he was pleased to have made a few successful putts during his round.
When asked about the standard of hospitality, Sir Jim awarded it top marks. “Ten out of 10, it can’t be more friendly. The coffee is good, in fact, the coffee is excellent here… and again, friendly faces everywhere,” he said, concluding simply: “That’s why I love Zimbabwe.”
Following his time in Victoria Falls, Sir Jim outlined an ambitious itinerary, revealing he is set to travel to Hwange National Park to stay at Little Makalolo for three nights, before heading to Mana Pools.
Recalling previous visits, he added: “Many years ago, I canoed… the Mana Canoe Trail down the Zambezi, I did it twice actually… about 80 or 100 kilometres down the river in a canoe, which was quite exciting. So I know Mana Pools quite well.”
As an ambassador for tourism, Sir Jim had a clear message for prospective travellers. “Zimbabwe is a magnificent place, it’s full of friendly people, it’s very safe,” he stated. “It’s got two, the only two I know, magnificent national parks, Hwange and Mana Pools, and of course you’ve got Victoria Falls, which is one of the wonders of the world. Nobody would ever forget going to Victoria Falls.”
The high-profile visit is expected to provide a significant boost to the country’s tourism sector, reinforcing the government’s “Destination Zimbabwe” campaign.
