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Ropafadzo Ndangariro Herald Reporter
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has started closing down unlicensed operators after the deadline for them to regularise their operations lapsed on March 31. The exercise has so far claimed the scalps of three operators – Pentagon Hotel, Palm Rock Villa Lodge and Earlside Hotel.
ZTA chief operating officer Mr Givemore Chidzidzi said the blitz was meant to restore order in the sector.
“We are doing this to make sure that everything is up to standard and restore order for the development of our country,” he said.
“If someone is not registered, it’s obvious they are not complying with the law.”
He urged players in the hospitality industry to strive to maintain high standards.
“Inasmuch as Zimbabwe is open for business, operators are supposed to deliver good standards that are welcoming to investors in terms of hygiene and the services they offer,” said Mr Chidzidzi.
“They are supposed to be hospitable. We don’t want a situation where just because Zimbabwe is open for business, people do whatever they want, whenever they want. We expect them to register every person who comes in and out of their hotels so that they keep records in case something happens.”
However, Mr Chidzidzi also said a lot of operators registered after they were given the grace period to comply.
“A lot of people registered. They have responded very well. We were surprised, but some are very slow to take action,” he said.
“We do not need informal operators. We want everyone to register and operate legally so that we, as the ZTA, can see how employment is being generated,” he said.
He also said ZTA will not hesitate to refer uncompliant businesses for prosecution.
“It is a law of the country that they must abide by; so if they fail to comply, the law will take its cause. They will face prosecution.”
Online Reporter