Tendai Keith Guvamombe
Harare, Zimbabwe — The vital role of the Safari industry in anchoring Zimbabwe’s economy was strongly affirmed by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, at the opening of The Safari Show held today at Parklands Business Venue in Borrowdale.
Minister Rwodzi highlighted the Nature and Wildlife Cluster as the nation’s best-performing tourism sector, noting that it remarkably contributes nearly 80% of Zimbabwe’s entire Tourism economy.
The sector’s success is directly translating into global recognition, with Zimbabwe recently earning the prestigious title of Forbes’ World’s Number One Must-Visit Destination for 2025.
The Minister applauded the organizers for successfully unifying the entire Safari value chain on a single platform.
She stressed that this collaborative environment is essential for strengthening sector visibility, driving innovation, and reinforcing the professionalism that underpins the steady increase in International Tourist Arrivals.
Sustainable Tourism and Global Leadership
At the core of the Safari industry’s future is the principle of Sustainable Tourism. Minister Rwodzi reaffirmed that Zimbabwe is committed to conservation-driven experiences, leveraging its wildlife foundation to attract visitors while simultaneously safeguarding the environment for future generations.
As a key Committee Member on Sustainable Tourism under UN Tourism, Zimbabwe is actively championing this development across the African continent.
This leadership role involves integrating conservation efforts directly into the tourism product, ensuring that the economic benefits support both local communities and wildlife protection.
The Minister also reassured the industry of continued Government support through President Mnangagwa’s Whole-of-Government Approach.
This initiative focuses on addressing key operational enablers, such as rebates and facilitation measures, which are crucial for boosting the sector’s global competitiveness.
The Safari Show served as a powerful showcase, cementing the industry’s status as the principal engine of Zimbabwe’s tourism resurgence and global profile.
