The Sunday Mail
Leisure Editor
Zimbabwe is set to experience a massive influx of tourists on the back of the confidence President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Government has infused.
Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive Dr Karikoga Kaseke said this as he received six major Spanish tourism buyers in Harare yesterday.
Dr Kaseke said the entire world had been captivated by Zimbabwe’s progressive political dispensation which is accentuated by robust economic policies.
“What the world should know from a tourism point of view is that Zimbabwe will never be the same again following Operation Restore Legacy. What we are seeing so far is a very big shift.
“In terms of perception — we had a very bad image, obviously related to our politics, but the vision of His Excellency, President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which he announced and pronounced, is very positive — and it can only boost tourism in the country,” Dr Kaseke said.
“Everyone can see that the economy of this country is coming to life again. (Finance) Minister (Patrick) Chinamasa has correctly interpreted the vision of the President. We in the tourism industry are happy with the pronouncements made by the leadership of this country because it is already showing in tourist arrivals.”
Head of the Spanish delegation, Lola Mellado— an Africa product manager for tour operator Descubrir Viajes – said they were ready to channel business to Zimbabwe.
“In the first days, we were confused and worried, but now that we see peace and quiet, and the eagerness to do business with the world, we are more than motivated. This is a great opportunity. The people out there are feeling more confident about coming to Zimbabwe.
“Spanish people love to travel and Zimbabwe is one of those destinations that are quite complete — offering a tourist almost everything that they can possibly need.”
Mellado’s team – accompanied by ZTA, Ethiopian Airlines and Kobo Safaris officials — will sample tourism products in Harare, Masvingo, Bulawayo, Matopos, Hwange and Victoria Falls.
The Spanish market contributes 6,5 percent of all European arrivals — the sixth largest contribution of arrivals from that continent.
Other major tourist markets are the UK, Germany, France, Benelux countries and Italy.
Zimbabwe has a strong tourism product base ranging from safari, beautiful aesthetics, rich cultural diversity, adventure and other offerings.
