Zimbabwe’s decision to host high-level United Nations tourism meetings in Victoria Falls is more than ceremonial diplomacy; it is a strategic affirmation of the country’s most powerful economic asset.
Known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya — “The Smoke that Thunders” — Victoria Falls is not only one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, but the heartbeat of Zimbabwe’s tourism economy.
Tourism remains one of the country’s key foreign currency earners, and Victoria Falls is its flagship brand.
Every international conference, congress or summit hosted in the resort town strengthens Zimbabwe’s profile as a meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) destination.
The ripple effects are tangible: hotel occupancy rises, airlines increase traffic, tour operators thrive, and small-to-medium enterprises benefit from downstream spending.
For a country pursuing economic emancipation, this is low-hanging fruit that must be fully harvested.
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For Matabeleland North province, Victoria Falls is nothing short of an economic anchor. It sustains thousands of livelihoods directly and indirectly — from hospitality workers and curio vendors to transport operators and communal conservancies.
In a province with limited industrial activity, tourism is the most viable and sustainable economic engine.
If fully leveraged, it can reduce poverty, empower communities and stimulate infrastructure development across Hwange, Lupane and surrounding districts.
Yet the paradox remains glaring. Despite hosting a global icon, Matabeleland North continues to lag behind in infrastructure development.
Critical road networks are obsolete, and the Bulawayo–Victoria Falls highway — a vital tourism artery — has taken far too long to modernise.
Poor road conditions not only undermine visitor experience but also constrain broader economic integration.
If Victoria Falls is Zimbabwe’s golden goose, then the nest must be strengthened. Strategic investment in roads, utilities and urban infrastructure is not optional — it is urgent. The Falls can drive national prosperity, but only if Matabeleland North is empowered to rise with it.