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The Zimbabwean government is set to deploy district tourism officers to unlock tourism investment opportunities and boost economic development in local communities.
This initiative was announced by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbra Rwodzi, at the Zimbabwe Tourism Investment Forum, held during the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo.
The expo is running from the 12 to 14 September under the theme ‘Tourism and Peace’.
Minister Rwodzi emphasized the importance of involving local communities in tourism development, particularly in marginalized areas, to achieve Vision 2030.
“We want to bring our communities on board… If we don’t, Vision 2030 will not be achieved,” she said.
To implement this strategy, the Ministry has engaged the Public Service Commission to increase human capital in various districts. This will ensure that tourism officers are present not only in provincial offices but also at the district level, facilitating a unified approach to tourism development.
Minister Rwodzi highlighted tourism’s significant contribution to Zimbabwe’s economy, accounting for 12% of the GDP over the last nine months. She emphasized the need for continued collaboration to maintain tourism’s position as a leading economic pillar.
“Our aim is to continue being number one, and it is attainable if everyone understands and pushes for one agenda,” she said. By deploying district tourism officers, the government aims to:
- Unlock tourism investment opportunities
- Spur economic development in local communities
- Increase human capital in districts
- Bring marginalized communities into the tourism fold
- Maintain tourism’s position as a leading economic pillar
This initiative demonstrates the government’s commitment to harnessing tourism’s potential for economic growth and community development.
Zim GBC News©2024