Minister Rwodzi’s UN Appointment a Testament to Second Republic’s Global Recognition

Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, has been appointed one of the Vice Presidents of the United Nations Tourism General Assembly, representing the Regional Commission for Africa alongside Nigeria.

The appointment was confirmed during the official opening of the 26th Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly held in Saudi Arabia.

According to a statement from the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the new role gives Zimbabwe a significant voice in shaping the global tourism agenda, particularly in advancing Africa’s sustainability and development priorities.

“This appointment places Zimbabwe at the core of international tourism diplomacy and strengthens our ability to promote Africa’s tourism vision and narrative globally,” the ministry said.

Before the formal opening ceremony, Zimbabwe also took part in the 21st Meeting of the UN Tourism Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS). The discussions focused on thematic areas and future initiatives designed to drive the sustainability agenda across the tourism sector worldwide.

During this session, Minister Rwodzi outlined Zimbabwe’s policy direction and strategies to integrate sustainability into all aspects of the tourism value chain.

“These initiatives are firmly aligned with Vision 2030, led by His Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, which aims to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy through sustainable growth, environmental stewardship, and inclusive national development,” the ministry noted.

Minister Rwodzi also presented the Gastronomy Tourism Initiative, an innovative programme spearheaded by First Lady Dr. Auxillia Mnangagwa, who serves as the Patron of Tourism. The initiative promotes Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage as a driver of cultural exchange, community development, and economic empowerment.

Gastronomy tourism focused on food as a key attraction highlights the traditions, heritage, and community spirit of a people while fostering cross-cultural understanding. It also boosts visitor experiences, supports local entrepreneurs, and creates job opportunities in rural and urban communities alike.

“The Gastronomy Tourism Initiative celebrates Zimbabwe’s rich culinary traditions while empowering women, youth, persons with disabilities, and marginalised communities through tourism and community-based enterprises,” the ministry added.

The programme’s four pilot Community-Based Tourism (CBT) projects, implemented in partnership with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), have already made a notable impact by strengthening local livelihoods and promoting sustainable development.

In recognition of these efforts, the Committee applauded Zimbabwe’s leadership and accepted the country’s offer to host the 23rd Session of the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability (CTS) in April 2026, to be held alongside the 2nd UN Tourism Women in Tourism Congress.

The ministry said hosting these two prestigious international gatherings will further demonstrate Zimbabwe’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable, and resilient tourism, while also positioning the nation as a top destination for Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) tourism.