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slowly emerging from a decade-long contraction induced by economic sanctions that some Western countries imposed which also saw them issuing travel warnings to their citizens.
Last year tourism contributed close to 7 percent to GDP for the full year. Tourism and Hospitality Minister Walter Mzembi said the sector was performing well compared to previous years.
“We are doing much better as we have so far contributed 9, 1 percent to GDP. Our figures show the potential for increasing,” he said.
“By 2015 we should be contributing 15 percent to GDP,” he added. Minister Mzembi said the tourism sector in Zimbabwe was the second fastest growing in terms of contribution to GDP after China.
According to the 2011 World Tourism report, Zimbabwe is second after South Africa in Africa in terms of tourism performance.
“We are now second only to South Africa in tourist arrivals and we believe the sector will continue to grow and contribute to Zimbabwe’s economic recovery,” said Minister Mzembi.
Last year the tourism industry raked in US$800 million in revenue and registered 2, 5 million international arrivals.
Tourist arrivals are this year expected to breach the 2, 5 million mark on the back of improved country risk factor and marketing strategies. – New Ziana.
Online Reporter