ZTA signs MOU with Eswatini

THE Zimbabwe Tourism Authority continued its drive to strengthen its tourism promotion in Africa through the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding with Eswatini Tourism Authority at the ongoing Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, South Africa.

The MOU is intended to establish a legal framework for the advancement of institutional and business cooperation between the two parties.

The two tourism authorities will facilitate joint marketing of tourism products and the creation of promotional campaigns to boost domestic, regional, and international tourism, among other initiatives.

Environment Climate Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndhlovu, and his Eswatini counterpart, Moses Vilakati, were present at the signing ceremony.

Eswatini Tourism Permanent Secretary, Khangeziwe Mabuza, also graced the ceremony.

“We’ve just got another ally in the marketing of tourism in the Southern African region,” said ZTA chief executive Winnie Muchanyuka.

“Most of our key source markets are long haul markets, and as they come to this part of the world, we would like them to visit a couple of countries before they head back.

“Adding Eswatini to the network is a welcome development.

“The Royal Kingdom of Eswatini’s airline started flying into Zimbabwe and this allows for a smoother movement between the two countries.

“Above those, the two authorities will benefit from benchmarking activities.”

Her Eswatini counterpart, Linda Nxumalo, said she was delighted and elated to sign the MOU with the ZTA.

“We’re excited to be entering into this partnership with the ZTA.

“This comes after His Majesty King Mswati visited Zimbabwe, and while there, he emphasised that we must partner and collaborate on issues of tourism.

“The MOU will focus on collaboration on issues of destination promotion and marketing, tour operator product educational programmes, staff exchange programmes and cultural and culinary exchange programmes,” said Nxumalo.

Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi, said he was delighted with the new business partnership, coming just after Eswatini Air’s return to Zimbabwe.