Chronicle Editor
Natasha Sipindiye, Sunday News Reporter
INVESTMENT into Zimbabwe’s tourism industry grew by almost 100 percent from a figure of US$96,5 million recorded in the first six months of last year to US$192,8 million in the same period this year as the sector continues to recover in the post Covid-19 pandemic era.
In a statement, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) spokesperson, Mr Godfrey Koti, said the country’s tourist arrivals also increased by 50 percent.
“Zimbabwe’s tourist arrivals increased by 50 percent to 529 078 in the first six months of 2023. Tourism receipts, grew by 16 percent to US$343,1 million compared to the same period last year, while investment into the tourism sector grew by almost 100 percent to US$96,5 million,” he said.
He said the sector’s continued positive performance was attributed to various marketing and investment initiatives.
Post-Covid-19 pandemic, the tourism industry has witnessed huge investments exceeding US$300 million which has accelerated the recovery of the sector.
Tourism which came out heavily scathed in the aftermath of the devastating Covid-19 pandemic, has made some impressive recoveries in terms of revenue and tourist arrivals.
In terms of international tourist arrivals, Mr Koti said the first-half of 2023 saw 148 340 tourists from overseas, an 11 percent increase compared to the 133 766 recorded in 2022.
“There was a 91 percent increase in tourists from Africa as 443 184 were recorded compared to 232 286 recorded in 2022 for the same period. The first-half of 2023 saw a total of 591 524 international tourist arrivals, which was a 62 percent increase compared to 366 062 recorded in 2022.”
He said the average hotel room occupancy stood at 41 percent compared to 39 percent in 2022, a two percent increase, while there was a five percent change in the estimated total domestic trips as 4 466 739 was recorded in 2023 and 4 721 973 in 2022 for the first-half.
Mr Koti added: “Estimated tourism receipts stood at US$397,7 million for the first-half of 2023 compared to US$343,1 million for the same period in 2022. The Zimbabwean tourism industry has undergone notable development and transformation in recent years, spurred by sustainable initiatives, improved infrastructure, and strategic partnerships.”
Meanwhile, The ZTA has set 12 to 14 October as the dates for the 16th edition of Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo to be held in Bulawayo.
The expo which resumed physical attendance last year, has previously been held virtually with limited participants in the 2020 and 2021 editions due to the Covid-19 disruptions.
Organised by ZTA in partnership with the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the Sanganai Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is known for its high-profile participants and engaging exhibition pavilions.
This year’s expo celebrates the resilience, dynamism, and untapped potential of Zimbabwe Africa as a première tourism destination, while highlighting the country’s unique position within the growing tourism landscape.
Zimbabwe boasts of a diverse range of destinations, wildlife, heritage, culture and adventure offerings, as Africa is emerging as a top choice for travellers worldwide.
Bongani Ndlovu