President Emmerson Mnangagwa, yesterday, met UN Tourism Secretary-General, Shaikha Al Nowais, at Munhumutapa Offices in Harare, where discussions focused on strengthening cooperation, promoting sustainable tourism development and positioning Zimbabwe as a leading global tourism destination.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade in a statement said the high-level engagement reflected Zimbabwe’s growing commitment to expanding its tourism sector and using it as a catalyst for economic transformation.
“This Monday afternoon, His Excellency President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa welcomed Ms. Shaikha Al Nowais, the Secretary-General of UN Tourism, at his Munhumutapa offices in Harare.
“Their engagement underscored Zimbabwe’s growing commitment to positioning the country as a premier global tourism destination,” the Ministry added.
According to the ministry, “The meeting centred on strengthening strategic cooperation, promoting sustainable tourism development, and leveraging the sector as a key driver of economic growth, investment, and job creation in the country.”
The Ministry noted that President Mnangagwa reiterated the Government’s readiness to deepen collaboration with UN Tourism in order to raise Zimbabwe’s standing on the international tourism market.
“During the meeting President Mnangagwa reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s dedication to working closely with UN Tourism to elevate the country’s international profile, highlighting its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and renowned hospitality,” the statement read.
The Ministry also said that they also discussed practical measures to increase tourist arrivals and ensure the benefits of tourism are widely shared across communities.
“The meeting also explored opportunities on how the country can attract international visitors, and ensure that tourism development remains inclusive and environmentally sustainable,” the ministry said.
The ministry said Zimbabwe remains committed to international engagement and partnerships that support national development goals.
“Zimbabwe continues to open its doors to the world, embracing partnerships that showcase the nation’s unique beauty while delivering tangible benefits to its people,” the ministry said.
Furthermore, Government has identified tourism as a strategic pillar for achieving an upper-middle-income economy status by 2030, with renewed emphasis on investment promotion, destination marketing and sustainable use of natural resources.
