Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Barbara Rwodzi, has passionately called on Zimbabweans living in the diaspora to visit and explore their home country, especially during the festive season.
Speaking at the Tourism Diaspora Engagement Forum on December 6, 2024, at Hotel Sky in Sandton, Johannesburg, Rwodzi emphasized the importance of reconnecting with Zimbabwe’s diverse attractions and supporting the local economy.
“Zimbabweans should visit their country. Don’t just stay home—go out and explore Zimbabwe,” Rwodzi urged the audience of Zimbabweans living in South Africa.
She highlighted that, while Victoria Falls remains one of the country’s major tourist destinations, the capital city of Harare is gradually becoming a vibrant tourism hub, attracting both local and international visitors.
“We are privileged to have Victoria Falls, but Harare is becoming our tourism hub, and we are looking forward to welcoming even more visitors,” said Rwodzi, referencing Zimbabwe’s efforts to improve infrastructure and attract global investments in tourism.
She also noted the country’s commitment to hosting the Cricket World Cup Under 19 in 2026 and the main Cricket in 2027, which will further boost Zimbabwe’s visibility on the continent.
The call to action is part of a broader initiative to encourage Zimbabweans abroad to invest in their country’s tourism sector.
“Investing in our tourism sector will help boost our economy and create jobs for the local population,” Rwodzi added.
Improved Infrastructure and Affordable Travel Options
Addressing some concerns about the accessibility of Zimbabwe, Alice Kutida, Market Research Manager at the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, discussed the strides the government has made in improving the country’s infrastructure.
She assured attendees that Zimbabwe’s roads, once a source of concern, have been rehabilitated and are now in good condition. This, she said, makes travel within the country much easier and more affordable.
“The roads have been fixed. We acknowledge that there were issues in the past, but now the major roads have been fully rehabilitated,” Kutida explained.
She also highlighted the availability of a wide range of accommodation options, from budget-friendly lodgings to high-end luxury hotels, ensuring that every traveler can find something that fits their budget.
Kutida encouraged Zimbabweans to plan holidays back home, whether for short getaways or longer vacations.
“We want people to consider booking holidays for their families, to visit attractions nearby or further afield in Zimbabwe. This is a homecoming call for the diaspora to appreciate what we have,” she said.
A Time for Reconnection
The forum, which also featured Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, David Hamadziripi, and Consul-General Eria Phiri, served as a platform for discussions on how the Zimbabwean diaspora can contribute to the growth of the tourism sector.
Zimbabwean businesspeople based in South Africa were also in attendance, marking the event as a significant milestone in strengthening ties between the two countries.
As the festive season approaches, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is poised to benefit from an influx of visitors who are eager to reconnect with their roots.
For many Zimbabweans living in South Africa, this is an opportunity not just to reunite with family, but to rediscover the beauty and potential of their home country.
For more information on tourism offerings in Zimbabwe, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority’s website provides a comprehensive guide to various travel packages and destinations.
The event marked a significant moment for the Zimbabwean diaspora, underscoring the vital role they play in the country’s tourism and economic development.
