MAZOWE – Zimbabwe’s tourism expansion must be anchored in responsible practices that reconcile economic growth with environmental stewardship and cultural safeguarding, Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Hon Tongai Mnangagwa said Monday.
He insisted that success depends on a coordinated all‑of‑government, all‑of‑society approach.
making the opening address of the stakeholder consultations on the National Tourism Sector Strategy (2026–2030) at Baradzanwa Cultural Centre, Mnangagwa stressed that the new blueprint cannot be a narrow sectoral document but must mobilise every state institution, private player and community to pursue tourism that protects the country’s natural and cultural assets while generating prosperity.
“Promote responsible tourism that balances economic growth with environmental protection and cultural preservation, safeguarding our heritage for future generations,” the Deputy Minister declared, placing that principle at the heart of the strategy.
He said this balance is only achievable through a unified national effort:
“A unified vision for tourism development in Zimbabwe ensures that government, private sector and communities are aligned in their efforts, working towards shared national goals.”
Mnangagwa made it clear that responsible tourism is inseparable from inclusive development. He reiterated that communities must be empowered as active participants not passive onlookers and that job creation, support for small enterprises and grassroots cultural promotion are non‑negotiable pillars of the strategy.
He also appealed to all including local authorities, development partners and civic groups to contribute their ideas, so that the final strategy is both technically robust and responsive to local realities.
The Deputy Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to fostering an enabling environment, but cautioned that long‑term success hinges on every citizen and institution embracing their role in preserving Zimbabwe’s unique heritage while reaping tourism’s economic dividends.
“Tourism must deliver inclusive benefits like creating jobs, supporting small businesses and promoting cultural heritage at the grassroots level,” he said.
“Your contributions today will therefore be instrumental in ensuring that this Strategy is both technically sound and responsive to the needs and opportunities of the sector.”
The National Tourism Sector Strategy is expected to be finalised later this year, with the responsible tourism and whole‑of‑society principles now firmly embedded as its guiding philosophy.
Express Mail Zim