Tourism, re-engagement drive key priorities in 2027 Budget

Tourism recovery and expansion, Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy and an intensified national image-building drive will be among the major priorities of the 2027 National Budget as Government seeks to accelerate economic transformation, attract investment, expand exports and boost foreign currency earnings.

The priorities are outlined in the 2027 Budget Strategy Paper presented by Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion Minister Professor Mthuli Ncube under the theme: “Accelerating Economic Transformation and Building Resilience to Climate and Global Shocks.”

The strategy indicates that tourism, international relations and national image building are no longer isolated policies but are interconnected pillars aimed at improving Zimbabwe’s global competitiveness.

A positive image fosters investor and tourist confidence, while strengthened diplomatic ties attract capital and promote tourism.

Tourism has been identified as one of the key sectors expected to drive inclusive economic growth through foreign currency generation, employment creation and enterprise development.

“In the tourism sector, Government will prioritise tourism growth and expansion. The tourism and hospitality sector is critical for foreign currency generation, employment, enterprise development and inclusive growth.

“The sector will benefit from ongoing efforts to improve destination competitiveness, promote Zimbabwe as a safe and attractive destination of choice, expand tourism products beyond traditional and mainstreaming domestic tourism,” reads part of the strategy paper.

Government said the sector’s recovery and expansion would be supported through implementation of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy, increased investment promotion and product diversification.

“Emphasis will be placed on implementing the Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy and related strategies aimed at strengthening product diversification, investment promotion, human capital development, destination accessibility and marketing.”

In line with efforts to broaden Zimbabwe’s tourism offering, Government will also promote new tourism segments beyond traditional attractions.

“Elevated focus will be given to heritage-based, nature and wildlife, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE), township, rural, sports, medical and community-based tourism products.”

The Budget Strategy Paper also identifies image building, international relations and trade as key enablers of economic transformation, with strategic communication expected to play a pivotal role in reshaping perceptions of Zimbabwe and supporting economic diplomacy.

“Government will, therefore, harness the power of the media and locally generated content to project authentic, positive narratives that showcase the country’s investment opportunities, cultural heritage, natural attractions and economic potential.

“In this regard, Government will invest in a coherent and well-resourced communication strategy that coordinates messaging across all platforms, leverages digital and traditional media and equips national media institution and MDAs to consistently and proactively promote the Zimbabwean story to regional and global audiences.”

Government said the initiative would strengthen Brand Zimbabwe, counter negative perceptions and reinforce efforts to attract investment, grow tourism and expand trade.

The strategy paper further notes that Zimbabwe’s engagement and re-engagement policy remains central to the country’s economic agenda as the country seeks to consolidate diplomatic and commercial ties with the international community.

“Building on the gains of the engagement and re-engagement initiatives, Government will continue to intensify diplomatic, political and economic engagement with the international community, guided by the principle of being ‘a friend to all and an enemy to none’.”