Tourism Leaders Push for Predictable Policies as US$5bn Vision Takes Shape

By Rumbidzai Mashayahanya

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector came out swinging this morning, declaring its readiness to help build a US$5 billion tourism economy by 2030 but only if policy alignment keeps pace with sector ambition.

Speaking at a high-level breakfast meeting in Harare, the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe (TBCZ) outlined a bold roadmap that places tourism at the centre of national economic resurgence. Industry leaders said the 2026 National Budget must serve as a catalyst for structural reform, investment attraction, and regulatory clarity.

They stressed that while Zimbabwe boasts competitive advantages, from natural heritage to cultural capital, the sector continues to face friction points that slow investment, dampen innovation, and frustrate operators. Policy inconsistencies across ministries, delays in approvals, and outdated regulatory frameworks were highlighted as key barriers.

“We are ready to drive growth, but policy must be coherent with industry developments,” Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe Executive Director, Stanley Mudawarima noted. He called for urgent, cross-government coordination to ensure that tourism growth is not undermined by administrative lags.

TBCZ revealed a phased implementation strategy that structures the drive toward a US$5 billion industry into three clear cycles, the foundational phase, acceleration product growth, and market consolidation phase.

Industry leaders emphasised the need for streamlined licensing, faster environmental and land-use approvals, and improved access roads to emerging destinations.

Stakeholders also pushed for incentives to support SMEs and women-led enterprises to ensure inclusive sector growth.

“In the final phase we will prioritise market consolidation and global competitiveness.

“This includes aggressive international marketing, expansion of air connectivity, and embedding sustainability standards to position Zimbabwe as a premium, environmentally-conscious destination,” Mudawarima said.

Meanwhile, tax expert, Marvellous Tapera urged treasury to prioritise Tourism-friendly fiscal incentives, particularly for capital investment and refurbishment, and for enhanced public-private partnerships which will unlock new tourism corridors.

In  the same vein, branding expert Martin Matamisa said that funding for destination marketing is critical in positioning Zimbabwe for the realisation of a USD$5 billion tourism economy.
“Zimbabwe cannot compete globally without sustained visibility, hence we need to increase our efforts in this area,” he said.

Industry players emphasised that aligning the national budget with the tourism roadmap will not only support the sector but also boost foreign currency earnings, employment creation, and rural development.