Strong partnerships are essential to foster inclusive and resilient growth in Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Tongai Mnangagwa, said today.
He was speaking at the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry World Tourism Symposium 2025, held under the theme “Tourism and Sustainable Transformation” at the University of Zimbabwe.
Addressing delegates, Mnangagwa emphasized the need for responsible tourism that protects the country’s natural and cultural heritage while benefiting all citizens.
“We are here to celebrate tourism and its contribution to economic growth,” he said.
“But this growth must be inclusive and sustainable, ensuring that our communities, especially the youth, are empowered in the process.”
The symposium gathered government officials, tourism stakeholders, students, and academics to discuss transforming the sector through sustainable practices, policy reform, and community participation.
A key topic was the recently launched National Tourism Policy, which focuses on devolution and decentralizing tourism development.
The policy aims to expand opportunities to marginalized and rural communities, aligning with the government's vision of inclusive development.
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“Tourism must reach all corners of the country—not just traditional destinations. Rural areas have enormous potential that must be unlocked through policy support, infrastructure, and investment,” Mnangagwa said.
University of Zimbabwe Vice-Chancellor, Paul Mapfumo, highlighted the tourism industry as a strategic driver of national development.
He stressed that closer collaboration between academia and the sector is crucial for fostering innovation and skills development.
Renowned tourism consultant, Shepherd Nyaruwata, said inclusive tourism strategy is in line with the government’s devolution agenda.
“The growth of domestic tourism is not just a survival response — it’s becoming a pillar of our sector. Communities are beginning to see tourism as a local opportunity, not just something for international visitors.”
