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Q & A WITH DEPUTY TOURISM MINISTER HON TONGAI MNANGAGWA
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As Zimbabwe steps up efforts to revive and diversify its tourism economy, one of the fastest-growing segments catching global attention is sports tourism — where competition, adventure and leisure meet.
In this in-depth conversation, Sunday News sits down with Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Tongai Mnangagwa, to discuss Zimbabwe’s strategy to harness the power of sport to boost visitor numbers, drive domestic travel and strengthen Brand Zimbabwe.
The Deputy Minister also reflects on the successes of the ZimBho domestic tourism campaign and the growing partnerships between Government and the private sector.
“OUR TOURISM INDUSTRY IS ON A STRONG RECOVERY PATH”
Q: Hon Deputy Minister, thank you for speaking with Sunday News. To begin, how would you describe the current state of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector?
A: Thank you for having me. Our industry is showing real resilience and strong recovery. Like the rest of the world, we suffered setbacks during the Covid-19 pandemic, but the bounce-back has been impressive. Visitor numbers and revenues are climbing, and confidence from both local and foreign travellers is returning.
What excites me most is the growth of domestic tourism. Through the ZimBho campaign, Zimbabweans have rediscovered the beauty of their own country. Families, schools and social groups are exploring Kariba, Nyanga, Hwange and Victoria Falls — giving life to our hotels, lodges and community tourism projects.
ZIMBHO CAMPAIGN “CHANGED THE MINDSET” OF LOCAL TRAVELLERS
Q: You’ve mentioned the ZimBho campaign several times. What impact has it had so far?
A: ZimBho — meaning “It’s Beautiful” — has been a game-changer. Its goal was simple: to make Zimbabweans fall in love with their own country again. We wanted to show that tourism isn’t just for foreign visitors — it’s for every Zimbabwean family.
Since its launch, we’ve seen church groups booking retreats, students visiting heritage sites, and small businesses offering affordable weekend packages. The campaign has built a culture of travel, encouraging people to spend locally and support communities.
More importantly, it has strengthened national pride. When citizens become domestic tourists, they also become our brand ambassadors abroad.
Pull Quote:
“When Zimbabweans explore their own country, they become our best ambassadors abroad.” – Hon Tongai Mnangagwa
“SPORTS TOURISM IS A GAME-CHANGER FOR ZIMBABWE”
Q: Let’s move to sports tourism — why does your Ministry view it as such a strategic opportunity?
A: Sports tourism is one of the fastest-growing tourism sectors globally. It includes everything from professional competitions and fan travel to adventure and outdoor recreation.
For Zimbabwe, it’s a natural fit. We have breathtaking landscapes and ideal venues for activities like marathons, golf, motorsport, trail running and adventure racing. Imagine an international marathon in Victoria Falls or a mountain bike challenge in Matobo Hills — these are experiences that showcase our country while generating real economic activity.
Our vision is to make sports tourism a key pillar of the national tourism product, working closely with the Ministry of Sport, Arts and Recreation.
NEW INITIATIVES AND SIGNATURE EVENTS
Q: What steps are being taken to grow this area?
A: We are implementing a structured approach. Firstly, we are supporting the creation of signature Zimbabwean events that can stand on the global calendar. Examples include the International Cricket Council T20 World Cup qualifiers, the rugby Africa Cup both of which we hosted in the country.
Secondly, we are deepening collaboration with national sports associations and the Zimbabwe Olympic Committee to market our destinations through sport.
Infrastructure development is another priority — from upgrading stadiums and adventure zones to improving access roads and hospitality facilities.
Lastly, we’re integrating sports tourism into major events like the Sanganayi-Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, where sports exhibitions and symposiums are now regular features.
We want Zimbabwe to be known as the Sports Capital of Africa.
PARTNERING WITH THE PRIVATE SECTOR
Q: What role does the private sector play in all this?
A: The private sector is absolutely central. Government sets policy, but the innovation and execution come from entrepreneurs, investors and event organisers.
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are the way forward. We encourage companies to invest in facilities, event management and marketing. Initiatives like the T20 World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup are excellent examples of how media, management, and sponsorship can work together for impact.
Our role as Government is to provide an enabling environment — simplifying processes, promoting events and ensuring policy consistency.
COMMUNITIES MUST BENEFIT
Q: How do you ensure that local communities benefit from tourism and sports events?
A: Sustainability and inclusivity are key principles of our tourism policy. Every event must bring tangible benefits to the host community — through jobs, procurement and participation.
When we host marathons, cycling races, or adventure challenges, we ensure local guides, food vendors and artisans are involved. Communities also gain exposure and opportunities to start small tourism enterprises.
We also insist that environmental management plans are followed. Our wildlife and ecosystems are assets — they must be protected as we grow the sector.
Tourism must benefit the communities that host it. That is the only sustainable model.
LOOKING AHEAD: A TOURISM VISION BUILT ON DIVERSITY
Q: What are your Ministry’s key priorities going forward?
A: Our focus is threefold.
Strengthen domestic tourism — build on the ZimBho momentum and introduce new themes like wellness and cultural tourism.
Develop a national sports tourism framework — bringing together Government, private sector and federations under one strategy.
Digital transformation and market expansion — we’re investing in visibility across online platforms and targeting new international markets, especially in Asia and the Middle East.
Ultimately, we want Zimbabwe to be known not just for its wildlife and scenery, but also as a world-class destination for sport, adventure and hospitality.
“EXPLORE ZIMBABWE — IT’S BEAUTIFUL, IT’S OURS”
Q: Finally, what message would you like to share with Zimbabweans and the world?
A: My message is simple: Explore Zimbabwe. It’s beautiful, it’s ours, and it’s open to the world.
To my fellow Zimbabweans — travel, attend events, and support local businesses. Every journey within our borders strengthens the economy.
And to our visitors — come and experience authentic Africa. From the warmth of our people to the majesty of our landscapes, Zimbabwe offers experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
Tourism is more than just travel — it’s identity, pride and connection. And in Zimbabwe, that connection runs deep.
