patron of the Zimbabwe Youth in Tourism, First Lady Auxilia Mnangagwa, has called for the greater entrepreneurial participation of youths and women in the tourism sector to drive its growth.
BY MTHANDAZO NYONI
Tourism has become part of sustainable development goals of many nations across the globe.
In a speech read on her behalf by Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services minister, Monica Mutsvangwa at the African Youth in Tourism conference held in Bulawayo last week, Mnangagwa said youth and women participation was key to tourism development.
“We have heard on numerous occasions that tourism is a low-hanging fruit; I want to appeal to the Ministry of Environment, Tourism and Hospitality that this statement will not be fulfilled unless there is greater and meaningful participation of the youth in the sector,” she said.
“The positive economic impact of the sector that is being enjoyed by the bigger players should also trickle down to the youths. That’s when we can say that statement has been fulfilled.”
Mnangagwa said her passion was to see youths and women participating more in and benefiting from the tourism sector.
She implored all relevant ministries to work together in addressing the challenges affecting youths and women, which she said were hampering their full participation in the sector.
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Officially opening the conference, Acting President Kembo Mohadi said participation of the youth in tourism should never be underestimated.
He said the tourism sector was key to the development of the country’s economy and should be fully supported.
The conference, which is held annually, sought to market Brand Zimbabwe as well engage in dialogue that will enhance the business entrepreneurial skills of youths.
