Africa-Press – Zimbabwe. ZIMBABWE’S tourism sector is recording strong growth, with government and industry leaders calling for collaboration, digital transformation and sustainability to future-proof the industry amid shifting global travel trends.
Zimbabwe’s tourism industry has recorded significant gains in 2025, with officials and sector leaders calling for stronger collaboration, innovation and digital transformation to safeguard long-term competitiveness.
Speaking at the 2025 Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (Haz) Summit in Harare recently, Tourism and Hospitality Industry secretary Takaruza Munyanyiwa, said tourism had become the number one contributor to GDP growth in the country.
From January to September this year, international tourist arrivals rose by 9%, while revenue reached US$900,22 million, up from US$839 million last year.
Munyanyiwa said the country’s rising global profile — boosted by Forbes naming Zimbabwe the top destination for 2025 — should inspire confidence.
He warned, however, that the sector must prepare for global shocks.
“How do we future-proof our tourism and hospitality industry so that it does not only survive global shocks, but thrives through them? Sustainability is not an expense; it is an investment in the longevity of our industry,” he said.
Newly-elected Haz president Emmah Kativu echoed the call for innovation, saying the summit theme — Future-proofing Tourism in Zimbabwe, is a call to action.
“This theme emphasises our commitment to adapting and evolving in an ever-changing global landscape,” she said.
Kativu said Haz would strengthen partnerships with the Tourism ministry, ZTA, industry players, academia and young people.
“Each of you plays a vital role in this process and I encourage everyone’s active participation,” she said. “Together, we will build upon the strong foundation laid by our past presidents.”
Kativu urged operators to innovate and collaborate more closely.
“The global landscape of tourism is evolving… It is our responsibility to adapt and innovate to meet these challenges,” she said. “As we continue to leverage on bilateral trade agreements and regional partnerships, it is imperative that we remain ahead of the pack in the region.”
For More News And Analysis About Zimbabwe Follow Africa-Press
