Zimbabwe’s new global tourism roles could be a game-changer

BY STEVE EPHRAEM

Zimbabwe has been elected to key global tourism positions this week, marking a significant step forward for the country’s tourism industry.

The country was chosen as Vice President of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly and secured a seat on the UN ¹qqq with the highest number of votes. This demonstrates Zimbabwe’s growing respect and recognition within the international tourism community.

One of the biggest advantages of these positions is increased visibility for Zimbabwe as a top tourist destination. When a country holds influential roles in global tourism organizations, it attracts more attention from travelers and investors.

Zimbabwe boasts breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. An increase in tourist arrivals means more business for hotels, tour operators, restaurants, and craft markets, ultimately helping local communities earn a better living.

Additionally, Zimbabwe is now in a position to influence global tourism policies. As a member of the UN Tourism Executive Council, the country can help shape decisions affecting tourism across Africa and beyond.

Zimbabwe can advocate for policies that support sustainable tourism, wildlife conservation, and community-based tourism initiatives. This approach will ensure that the tourism sector grows while protecting the environment and creating jobs for locals.

In another milestone, Zimbabwe has been selected to host the 3rd UN Tourism Women in Tourism Regional Congress in 2026—an excellent opportunity to showcase the country on the global stage. Efforts to promote women’s participation in tourism have been gaining momentum.

The First Lady, Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, has led impressive initiatives such as Gastronomy Tourism and the Women’s Market Galore. Hosting this congress will allow Zimbabwe to highlight its successes while encouraging more female entrepreneurs to join the sector.

Tourism flourishes through collaboration, and Zimbabwe’s new positions enable stronger ties with other nations. These partnerships can lead to joint marketing campaigns, shared training programs, and increased investment in tourism infrastructure. Moreover, Zimbabwe can learn from other countries’ successes and apply those strategies locally.

If fully utilised, Zimbabwe’s new global tourism roles could be a game-changer for the country’s travel sector.