Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe,Zimpapers Business Hub
Zimbabwe will on Saturday join the global community in celebrating World Tourism Day (WTD) at Dzivarasekwa Stadium in Harare, reaffirming the sector’s central role in economic growth, employment creation, and community empowerment.
World Tourism Day, observed annually on 27 September under the auspices of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UN Tourism), underscores tourism’s contribution to socio-economic development and the advancement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Running under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation”, this year’s commemorations will spotlight how the tourism sector drives inclusive local economies, fosters entrepreneurship, and builds vibrant, resilient communities.
As one of the largest economic sectors in the world, tourism plays a significant role in creating environments that support innovation, transformation and sustainable tourism communities, thus contributing to addressing the socio-economic challenges that impact global societies.
In a promotional statement, Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry said, “Zimbabwe will join the rest of the world in commemorating World Tourism Day 2025 on Saturday, the 27th of September at Dzivarasekwa Stadium in Harare, a day established by UN Tourism to highlight the importance of tourism globally.
“Running under the theme, ‘Tourism and Sustainable Transformation,’ this year’s celebrations will spotlight how tourism drives growth, sustainability, inclusivity and community empowerment.”
Significantly, hosting the global commemoration in Dzivarasekwa promotes the Township Tourism Cluster, positioning tourism as a powerful tool for uplifting marginalised communities, added the ministry.
“Hosting this global commemoration in Dzivarasekwa promotes the Township Tourism Cluster, showcasing how tourism uplifts marginalised communities, creates opportunities, and transforms lives through culture, creativity, and resilience.
‘In a vibrant township setting, Dzivarasekwa reflects the spirit of sustainable tourism, where heritage, people, and innovation meet,” the Ministry said.
The event will also showcase the link between township tourism and gastronomy tourism, offering visitors authentic Zimbabwean dishes and flavours that reflect the country’s cultural richness.
“Township tourism proudly embraces its connection to Gastronomy Tourism inviting tourists to several authentic Zimbabwean dishes and unique township flavors that tell our story through food,” the Ministry added.
World Tourism Day comes at a time when Zimbabwe is strengthening its tourism product to maximise its impact on GDP, attract investment and support the National Development Strategy 1 (NDS1) objectives of job creation, value addition and sustainable development.
