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Thandeka Matebesi, Business Reporter
THE Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) will in May hold awards to honour the country’s excelling tourism and hospitality players, an official said.
TBCZ chief executive officer Mr Paul Matamisa said preparations for the hosting of the annual “Tourism Achievers Awards” in Harare on 30 May was at an advanced stage.
“Planning is already underway to obtain sponsorship, receive nominations and set up an awards ceremony, usually held as a formal dinner event,” said Mr Matamisa.
He said the annual awards, which have been held since the 1990s were aimed at recognising individuals and companies’ efforts and achievements in support of travel and tourism in the country.
“Nominations for the awards are sought each year from members of the TBCZ across Zimbabwe and deliberation on the final selection is undertaken by a team of eminent adjudicators made up of past presidents of the TBCZ,” said Mr Matamisa.
He said although there are a number of categories to be won, the major highlight was the Tourism Personality of the Year Award.
“In recent years the awards have been named the Tourism Achievers’ Awards, and consist of various categories that comprehensively cover the different areas of focus within travel and tourism.
“The principal award in the list is the Tourism Personality of the Year trophy,” said Mr Matamisa.
Last year’s Tourism Personality of the Year Award was won by the financial director of Africa Albida Tourism Group, Mr Nigel Frost in recognition of his campaign to resolve a long outstanding taxation issue on behalf of the travel and tourism sector.
derick.khumalo