Online Reporter
Nqobile Bhebhe in Mutare
Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to defy global headwinds, with the country recording over 1.6 million international tourist arrivals in 2024, translating to tourism receipts exceeding US$1.2 billion and investment inflows worth US$190.5 million, a senior government official has said.
Addressing delegates at the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi World Tourism Expo Investment Conference in Mutare through her deputy, Tongai Mnangagwa, Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbara Rwodzi said the surge in arrivals and investments reflects deliberate efforts to position Zimbabwe as a prime destination for both leisure and business travel.
“The results are clear. Despite global economic challenges, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has demonstrated resilience and growth,” she said.
“In 2024, Zimbabwe welcomed over 1.6 million international arrivals, which translated to over US$1.2 billion receipts. A total of US$190.5 million worth of investment was realised in the same year, representing a seven percent growth from 2023.”
Minister Rwodzi attributed the impressive performance to a combination of factors, including improved air connectivity, strategic marketing of Destination Zimbabwe, and the country’s enduring peace and stability.
“The receipts were spurred by enhanced air connectivity, aggressive destination marketing, peace and stability, which are the hallmarks of our nation,” she noted.
She said the investments recorded in 2024 were largely driven by attractive opportunities and a noticeable increase in international arrivals, setting the tone for stronger performance in 2025 and beyond.
The 18th edition of the Expo, themed “Unlocking Tourism Investment Opportunities for Local Economic Development”, could not have come at a more opportune time, she said.
“It underscores our shared determination to harness tourism as a driver of inclusive growth, provincial empowerment, and national transformation.”
“It reminds us that tourism investment must go beyond national balance sheets, but to transform livelihoods at the community level. That’s inclusive tourism growth.”
Organised by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), the annual Sanganai/Hlanganani/Kumbanayi Expo has grown into Africa’s premier tourism marketplace.
It showcases the continent’s rich travel offerings while facilitating serious business engagement.
This year’s edition blends exhibitions, business-to-business networking, knowledge-sharing sessions, and cultural showcases—a dynamic mix aimed at stimulating growth across the tourism value chain.
