Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Masvingo
The tourism sector is basking in yet another continental recognition after Zimbabwe scooped Bronze in the Leading in Progressive Policy Award at the Africa Tourism Leadership Awards (ATLF) 2026.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi expressed delight at the recognition, saying it was a fitting endorsement of the sector’s efforts to promote progressive tourism policies and sustainable growth.
The award comes as Zimbabwe intensifies preparations for the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo, which kicks off in Masvingo next week.
Zimbabwe shared the Bronze award with Kenya’s Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife and the Rwanda Development Board.
“As the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, we are proud to have scooped Bronze in Leading in Progressive Policy Award at the Africa Tourism Leadership Awards (ATLF) 2026, alongside the Ministry of Tourism and Wildlife of Kenya and Rwanda Development Board, reaffirming Zimbabwe’s commitment to progressive Tourism policy and an enabling environment for Sustainable Tourism growth,” the ministry said in a brief statement.
In an interview, Minister Rwodzi said the recognition was particularly significant as it coincided with the arrival of national airline Air Zimbabwe in Masvingo and the country’s preparations for Sanganai.
“Today, it’s a good day for us with Air Zimbabwe landing in Masvingo and then winning two awards as well.
“We are very happy as hospitality industry, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority as well as Mosi-oa-tunya, we are sharing this recognition.
“But let me thank His Excellency for giving us a chance to serve. Most importantly we wouldn’t be here if he had not chosen us to be part of the Cabinet.
“So we are happy, we are very happy and excited that it coincided with Sanganai.
The continental accolade adds to Zimbabwe’s growing list of tourism industry recognitions, underscoring the country’s rising profile as a competitive destination and the Government’s efforts to create an enabling environment for tourism investment and sustainable development.
