Staff Writer
Zimbabwe’s drive to position itself as a globally competitive tourism destination has received fresh impetus, with the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe Tourism Expo Awards celebrating excellence, innovation and sustainability across the industry.
The awards ceremony, held at the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre in Masvingo, was presided over by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon Barbara Rwodzi, who represented the Patron of the Tourism and Hospitality Industry, First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa.
In a message delivered on her behalf, Dr Mnangagwa commended the tourism sector for its contribution to Zimbabwe’s economic transformation, describing Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe as a strategic platform for promoting Destination Zimbabwe.
“Tourism is a key pillar of our economic transformation and its continued growth is aligned with our national aspiration of achieving an Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030,” Dr Mnangagwa said.
She said the expo provided an important platform for connecting Zimbabwe with international tourism markets.
“Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe is a strategic platform that positions Zimbabwe as a competitive, diverse and attractive destination, bringing together investors, international buyers, exhibitors and tourism professionals,” she said.
Dr Mnangagwa, however, cautioned that tourism development should be accompanied by environmental protection and meaningful community participation.
“Tourism growth must be sustainable. We must protect our natural heritage, wildlife, nature and cultural identity while ensuring that our communities meaningfully benefit from tourism,” she said.
With 2027 declared the International Year for Sustainable Tourism and Resilience, the First Lady urged the industry to prepare for a future driven by responsible and climate-conscious tourism.
“We must invest in climate-smart tourism infrastructure, conservation, community empowerment and responsible business practices,” she said.
The awards ceremony also recognised individuals and organisations whose professionalism, innovation and dedication have contributed to raising standards within Zimbabwe’s tourism industry and strengthening the international recognition of Destination Zimbabwe.
Dr Mnangagwa congratulated the nominees and award recipients, urging them to maintain high standards of service.
“I congratulate all the nominees and award recipients for their passion, innovation, professionalism and dedication. I encourage you all to maintain high standards of service, innovation and sustainability,” she said.
She further called for stronger partnerships between Government, the private sector, communities and development partners to accelerate investment, product diversification and skills development.
“Greater engagement between Government, the private sector, communities and development partners is critical in advancing investment, product diversification and skills development,” Dr Mnangagwa said.
She reaffirmed her commitment to an inclusive and responsible tourism sector that benefits communities while contributing to Zimbabwe’s broader economic development agenda.
“As Zimbabwe continues its journey towards an Upper Middle-Income Society by 2030, I remain committed to promoting inclusive, responsible and sustainable tourism,” she said.