Itai Mazire

Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is “standing tall” following a sharp rise in international arrivals during the festive season, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Honourable Barbara Rwodzi has said.

Speaking at the Kazungula Border Post during the ongoing Meet and Greet exercise an initiative aimed at welcoming visitors entering through key tourism gateways Hon Rwodzi said the country is experiencing strengthened momentum from major source markets.

“We are witnessing strong arrivals from Germany, South Africa, the United Kingdom and Botswana.

“I am highly satisfied with the growing tourist inflows through Kazungula, which continue to demonstrate confidence in Zimbabwe as a must-visit destination,” said Hon Rwodzi.

She said the influx aligns with national tourism recovery trends, citing significant increases in air travel.

“Zimbabwe’s recognition by Forbes has been reflected in the numbers. We have recorded an 80 percent increase in flights into Bulawayo and a 56 percent increase in flights into Victoria Falls.

“These volumes have surpassed previous years, showing rising destination confidence and improved air access,” said Hon Rwodzi.

She added that the festive season has intensified activity across major attractions, particularly Victoria Falls, as holidaymakers continue to cross through regional corridors such as Kazungula.

Zimbabwe continues to record a steady rise in tourist arrivals during the festive season, with Zimbabweans in the Diaspora forming the bulk of incoming travellers strongly reinforcing the enduring message that home is best.

The positive momentum is being driven by a Whole-of-Government Approach, marked by seamless coordination among key institutions including the Department of Immigration, ZIMRA, the Airports Company of Zimbabwe (ACZ), security forces and other strategic stakeholders. This collaborative effort has ensured smooth, efficient and welcoming entry processes at ports of entry, enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors.

In a clear demonstration of commitment to service excellence and hands-on leadership, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, was on the ground at Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport, personally welcoming tourists with warm Zimbabwean hospitality. Her presence set a positive tone for visitors from the very first point of contact, underscoring government’s dedication to delivering memorable and world-class tourism experiences.

This welcoming atmosphere comes at a time when Zimbabwe’s tourism brand is gaining growing international recognition. Global media outlet Forbes has acknowledged Zimbabwe as a rising global destination, affirming the country’s renewed appeal and reinforcing the message that Zimbabwe is, indeed, great again.

Guided by President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s foreign policy philosophy of Zimbabwe being “an enemy to none, a friend to all,” the tourism sector continues to benefit from strong inter-ministerial collaboration.

Working closely with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, as well as the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Zimbabwe has intensified destination marketing through international roadshows, expanded Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism, and strengthened engagement with the Diaspora.

Tourism remains one of Zimbabwe’s key low-hanging fruits for economic growth and investment. A welcoming, safe and comfortable environment is encouraging longer visitor stays, increased tourist spending and wider participation across various sectors of the economy from transport and accommodation to arts, culture and small-scale enterprises.

2026 a year of Brick by Brick

Itai Mazire

The Ministry of Local Government has taken significant strides in 2025 to provide housing units for thousands of war veterans and youths. This initiative is poised to transform lives and foster sustainable communities across the nation.

Under the leadership of Minister Daniel Garwe, the ministry has prioritized housing as a fundamental human right, recognizing the sacrifices made by war veterans and the potential of the youth to contribute to national development. “We owe it to our heroes and the next generation to ensure they have access to secure, affordable housing,” Garwe stated. “This initiative is not just about building homes; it’s about building futures.”

In a collaborative effort with both public and private sectors, the ministry has launched several housing projects aimed at fast-tracking the construction of affordable units. “By working together with various partners, we are accelerating our housing delivery mechanisms to meet the urgent needs of these communities,” Garwe explained.

The impact of this housing initiative is already evident, as hundreds of families are now moving into newly constructed homes designed to provide modern amenities while being cost-effective. “This project signifies hope and stability for many; it’s a step towards restoring dignity for our veterans and empowering our youth,” he added.

Moreover, the ministry’s approach includes providing support services, such as financial literacy programs and job training, to ensure that beneficiaries can sustain their new living environments. “We want to ensure that these housing solutions translate into real opportunities for growth and self-sufficiency,” Garwe emphasized.

The Ministry of Local Government continues to uphold its commitment to social justice and economic empowerment, it is setting a precedent for future housing policies. With unwavering determination, the ministry is not only addressing immediate housing needs but also fostering a spirit of community resilience and solidarity for 2025 and beyond.