Online Reporter
Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
THE tourism sector continues to show resilience and growth, having raked in over US$1,2 billion in receipts in 2024 from 1,6 million international arrivals, as Government intensifies efforts to position the industry as a key driver of economic transformation.
The figures were revealed by Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, who was represented by her deputy, Honourable Tongai Mnangagwa, while addressing delegates at the Tourism
Investment Forum in Mutare this week.
Minister Rwodzi said the sector’s remarkable performance was achieved despite global economic headwinds, and was largely driven by enhanced air connectivity, peace and stability, and aggressive destination marketing.
“In 2024, Zimbabwe welcomed over 1,6 million international arrivals, which translated to over US$1,2 billion in receipts. A total of US$190,5m worth of investment was realised in the same year, representing a seven percent growth from 2023.
“These investments were driven by attractive opportunities as well as increased arrivals to destination Zimbabwe,” she said.
She stressed the importance of investment in infrastructure and amenities to sustain the growth momentum.
“Investment remains key for the growth and development of tourism. Successful destinations have to invest in the infrastructure and amenities that support visitors’ stay,” she said.
Minister Rwodzi noted that under the visionary leadership of President Mnangagwa, tourism has been placed at the centre of Zimbabwe’s economic revival strategies.
“The National Development Strategy (NDS1) and its successor, NDS2, recognise tourism as a critical pillar in Zimbabwe’s march towards an upper middle-income economy by 2030,” she added.
She also unveiled priority investment opportunities in the sector, ranging from hospitality infrastructure to eco-tourism and digital innovations.
“Today’s forum is, not about broad concepts, it is about bankable opportunities. These include expansion of hotel and lodge capacity in Nyanga, Vumba, Chimanimani, Mutare and Victoria Falls, the development of conferencing facilities, adventure and eco-tourism products, religious and cultural tourism infrastructure, as well as smart booking platforms and renewable energy-powered lodges,” she said.
She assured investors that Government, through the Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA), is providing a transparent and facilitative environment for tourism projects.
“The calibre of institutions represented here today is testimony that tourism is an investable sector.
“We are deepening Public-Private Partnerships, de-risking projects, and ensuring that investments are protected and profitable,” she stressed.
Turning to the host province, Minister Rwodzi described Manicaland as a model of inclusive and sustainable tourism development.
“Our host, Manicaland Province, is a showcase of these pillars in action. The Eastern Highlands, Honde Valley, Mutarazi Falls, and Nyanga National Park are jewels of eco-tourism and adventure. Religious and cultural sites attract visitors, while artisanal and cultural communities add depth to our tourism offering.
“This province is strategically positioned as Zimbabwe’s gateway to Mozambique and the wider SADC region, making it the natural starting point for a new chapter of tourism investments,” she said.
Also addressing the same gathering, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, echoed similar senntiments, saying the forum demonstrated Government’s commitment to devolving tourism development and transforming provinces into engines of growth.
“Hosting this Tourism Investment Forum is a testimony of our Government’s commitment to positioning tourism as a key economic driver in line with our National Development Strategy (NDS1) and Vision 2030.
Devolving tourism development is, not just a theme; it is a call to action. It means empowering provinces like ours to become engines of growth, innovation and sustainable development,” he said.
He said Manicaland is strategically positioned to play a central role in tourism growth, given its location and rich endowments.
“Our province is the gateway to the Eastern Highlands and a cross-border province linking Zimbabwe directly with Mozambique and the wider SADC region.
“This offers immense potential for regional tourism circuits, seamless movement of tourists, enhanced trade, and easier access to international markets through the Beira Corridor,” he said.
Minister Mugadza highlighted the diversity of attractions in the province, including the misty mountains of Nyanga, the pristine forests of Vumba, and the cultural and natural heritage of Chimanimani.
He described Mutare, fondly known as Kumakomoyo, as the jewel of the Eastern Highlands.
“Whether bathed in the golden glow of sunrise or wrapped in the soft mist of evening, Mutare’s mountains stand as symbols of resilience, tranquillity, and natural splendour, making this city a true jewel of Zimbabwe’s Eastern Highlands,” he said.
He also pointed to opportunities in agri-tourism, given Manicaland’s status as Zimbabwe’s prime tea, coffee, and fruit-producing province.
“The intersection of agriculture and tourism offers opportunities in farm lodges, estate tours, wine and cider production, and culinary tourism,” he said.
Calling for partnerships, Minister Mugadza said Manicaland is open for business.
“Manicaland is not just a tourist destination. It is a strategic investment hub where natural beauty, cultural heritage, and economic opportunity converge. Your partnerships here will, not only yield returns, but also uplift communities and preserve our heritage,” he said.
Minister Mugadza also pledged Government’s readiness to support investors.
“As Government, we stand ready to facilitate, support and partner with investors who share our vision of building a vibrant tourism economy that uplifts communities, protects our environment and drives Zimbabwe towards Vision 2030,” he said.
