Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is undergoing a spectacular revival, with international arrivals increasing by 27% in the first half of 2024 over the previous year.
Speaking to the media recently ahead of the World Tourism Day celebrations on September 27th, a date set aside by the United Nations Tourism, in which this year’s theme is “Tourism and Peace,” Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Barbra Rwodzi says that the country welcomed a total of 751,483 visitors during this period, up from 592,567 in 2023, representing a significant increase over the 2023/2024 period.
This significant increase in tourist arrivals has resulted in a significant boost to the economy, with tourism receipts up 24% to US$493 million in the first half of 2024, compared to US$398 million in the same period last year. The sector’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s GDP has been consistent at around 5.7%.
“The first half of the year saw a remarkable 27% increase in international arrivals, reaching 751,483 compared to 592,567 during the same period in 2023 adding that tourism receipts also experienced a 24% surge, reaching US$493 million from US$398 million in the first half of 2023. The sector continues to be a cornerstone of Zimbabwe’s economy, contributing approximately 5.7% of GDP.
The tourist boom can be attributed to a number of drives, including the government’s attempts to promote the country as a desirable destination, improved infrastructure, and the growing popularity of Zimbabwe’s various attractions. The country’s famed Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and Great Zimbabwe National Monument continue to attract people from all over the world.
As Zimbabwe recovers from recent challenges, the tourism industry is poised to play an even larger role in the country’s economic development, and the government is committed to investing further in tourism infrastructure and marketing initiatives to attract more visitors and maximise the sector’s potential.
Meanwhile, Minister Rwodzi announced that a number of activities have been planned, including the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo, which is currently taking place in Bulawayo from September 11 to 13, and the Tourism Symposium at Lupane State University on September 19.
