Tendai Keith Guvamombe
The festive spirit in Zimbabwe has been bolstered by a surge in travel confidence, as witnessed by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, during her recent visit to the Plumtree Border Post.
Observing a significant increase in tourist inflows, the Minister highlighted that the growing numbers of both foreign visitors and the Zimbabwean Diaspora are a testament to the success of the Second Republic’s strategic policies.
Minister Rwodzi attributed this positive trajectory to the visionary leadership of His Excellency, President Dr. Emmerson D. Mnangagwa. She noted that the “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” mantra is yielding tangible results, with the Diaspora and foreign arrivals now serving as some of the nation’s most vital “investors.”
Their return home during the festive season not only reunites families but also injects critical momentum into the local hospitality value chain.
A key highlight of the visit was the efficiency of the newly implemented digital Border Management System. This modern infrastructure has revolutionized the traveler experience, replacing traditional bottlenecks with a seamless, orderly, and professional process.
Tourists at the border expressed high levels of satisfaction, citing the welcoming atmosphere and the speed of clearance as major improvements. The Minister emphasized that border posts serve as the “face” of Zimbabwe’s tourism, making their efficiency vital to the country’s brand.
To maintain this momentum, Minister Rwodzi called for a “Whole-of-Government Approach,” urging continued collaboration and strong communication between departments.
By ensuring that every touchpoint—from immigration to the final destination—is smooth, the government aims to encourage visitors to extend their stays and explore the nation’s rich heritage. This integrated strategy ensures that Zimbabwe remains a premier, comfortable, and inviting destination for all.
