By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
To encounter Zimbabwe’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Honorable Barbara Rwodzi, is to witness a study in compelling contrasts.
She often spots a short, almost bald hairstyle—a bold statement that defies conventional norms and speaks to a deep-seated confidence.
Adorned almost exclusively in long, elegant dresses and long-sleeved shirts crafted from Zimbabwe’s national fabric, she is a walking, talking emblem of national pride.
Some might misinterpret her cool, self-assured demeanor as arrogance, but that perception shatters upon meeting her.
They are quickly charmed by an almost down-to-earth persona, disarmed by her signature broad smile that reveals a well-groomed, radiant dentition—a clear sign of a woman who is both happy and in her element.
Minister Rwodzi is, by all accounts, a jolly good-fella. She loves to dance, and those who have witnessed her on the dancefloor can attest: she is often sober, yet possesses an infectious energy that makes those around her feel good.
This vibrant, human vibe makes her all the more remarkable. But cross her path or hinder her mission, and she quickly transforms into a savage, no-nonsense woman who is, as her colleagues attest, “all about business.”
It is this unique blend of unwavering national pride, charismatic public engagement, and a relentless, business-like focus that has made her the unlikely and highly effective architect of Zimbabwe’s ongoing tourism renaissance.
In a relatively short time, Minister Rwodzi has achieved what many of her predecessors could not, orchestrating a period of unprecedented global recognition and strategic growth for the sector.
A Global Stamp of Approval
Under her stewardship, Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has exploded onto the global stage with a series of landmark achievements that are nothing short of spectacular.
The crowning jewel came when Forbes Magazine named Zimbabwe the “World’s Best Destination to Visit in 2025.” This was not just a listing; it was a powerful vindication of the nation’s renewed image and a defining moment for “Destination Zimbabwe.”
This accolade was swiftly followed by a cascade of other international endorsements:
Condé Nast Traveller listed Victoria Falls among the Best Places to Visit in 2026.
Travel and Leisure highlighted Zimbabwe’s inclusion in Pan Am’s 2026 “Sky to Safari” ultra-luxury itinerary, the airline’s return to Africa after three decades.
Zimbabwe was elected to the United Nations Tourism Council for 2025–2029 and appointed Vice President of its General Assembly, placing the nation at the heart of global tourism policy.
This collective global recognition affirms a growing confidence in Zimbabwe’s tourism infrastructure, its wildlife conservation, and the warmth of its people.
Taking the Nation to the People: A Promise Fulfilled
A pivotal demonstration of this new approach was the historic decision to host the prestigious Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Mutare.
This move was a direct and tangible implementation of President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind.” Under Minister Rwodzi’s leadership, this was not just a slogan but a call to action.
To ensure the event’s success and unlock the potential of the Eastern Highlands, her ministry championed critical infrastructure upgrades, including the refurbishment of the Grand Reef Aerodrome and its supporting facilities, as well as improvements to key roads in the region.
This bold move decentralized a major national event, stimulated the local economy in Manicaland, and showcased emerging destinations like Nyanga and Chimanimani to the world, proving that tourism growth could be a nationwide phenomenon.
Strategic Foundations and Tangible Results
Beyond the headlines and regional development, Minister Rwodzi has been a force of strategic implementation. She has overseen the successful execution of the sector’s diversification Cluster Strategy, driving growth across 12 distinct areas including Nature and Wildlife, MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), Medical Tourism, and Gastronomy.
The latter saw a major boost after Zimbabwe hosted the first-ever UN Tourism Gastronomy Conference in Africa in 2024, positioning the nation as a future culinary hub.
Thanks to First Lady Dr Amai Auxillia Mnangagwa’s vision to promoting and championing health and wellness through gastronomy tourism in Zimbabwe. and globally. She was recognised by UN Tourism and Unesco for her role as. a champion of gastronomy tourism
Her tenure is also marked by critical legislative and policy groundwork. She has launched the new National Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy for 2025-2030 and tabled the new Tourism Bill before Parliament, creating a modern regulatory framework for the sector.
Understanding the need to support local businesses, she has facilitated a comprehensive review of tourism licences and regulatory fees.
This strategic vision is translating into tangible economic impact. By the end of the third quarter of 2025, tourism receipts stood at a robust US$922 million.
The Personal Touch in a National Success Story
Perhaps the most telling sign of her success is the shift in source markets. The United States has now overtaken traditional European markets like the UK and Germany as Zimbabwe’s top source market, a clear indicator of renewed international confidence and a direct result of targeted marketing and engagement.
Through it all, Minister Barbara Rwodzi remains the consistent, charismatic face of this revival.
Whether she is championing Zimbabwean fabric on the world stage, dancing joyfully at a local event in Mutare, or fiercely defending her sector’s interests in government chambers, she embodies a new, confident Zimbabwe—one that is open for business and ready to welcome the world.
Her achievements are a testament to what can happen when unapologetic national pride is fused with strategic acumen and an irresistible, down-to-earth charm.
#ExperienceZimbabwe #ZimBho
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