By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has received global recognition after a remarkable showing at ITB Berlin 2026, where the country secured two prestigious accolades that reaffirm its growing influence on the global travel stage.
At the highly respected PATWA International Travel Awards, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, was honoured with the title Tourism Minister of the Year – Africa.
The award recognises her transformative and innovative leadership in repositioning Zimbabwe as a competitive and dynamic tourism destination.
In another major milestone, Zimbabwe was crowned Destination of the Year – Natural Wonders, highlighting the country’s extraordinary natural heritage, conservation efforts and authentic travel experiences.
The recognition further strengthens Zimbabwe’s reputation as one of Africa’s most compelling emerging destinations—a status also highlighted by Forbes in its travel outlook last year.
A Destination Defined by Natural Wonders
Zimbabwe’s appeal lies in a spectacular blend of landscapes, wildlife and cultural heritage that continue to attract discerning global travellers.
Visitors can experience the thunderous beauty of Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest and most dramatic waterfalls. Wildlife enthusiasts are drawn to the vast wilderness of Hwange National Park, home to one of Africa’s largest elephant populations.
Adventure seekers and nature lovers can explore the pristine floodplains of Mana Pools National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for canoe safaris and walking safaris. In the southeast, the rugged landscapes of Gonarezhou National Park offer remote wilderness experiences and dramatic red sandstone cliffs.
Zimbabwe’s cultural and scenic treasures are equally captivating. The ancient spiritual landscapes of Matobo Hills, the misty mountains of the Eastern Highlands, the crystal-clear pools of Chinhoyi Caves and the historic stone city of Great Zimbabwe together showcase the country’s rich blend of history, culture and natural beauty.
Bold Reforms Driving Tourism Growth
The international recognition also reflects significant reforms and innovation within Zimbabwe’s tourism sector. Among the notable achievements was the successful hosting of the UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, held in honour of the country’s Patron of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Auxillia Mnangagwa.
The initiative was complemented by nationwide gastronomy competitions that empower women and youth while promoting Zimbabwe’s culinary heritage as a tourism asset.
In addition, the government has implemented a 13-cluster tourism diversification model, expanding the sector beyond wildlife tourism to include gastronomy, culture, adventure, heritage and community-based experiences.
A New Era for Zimbabwe Tourism
Supported by the re-engagement and economic development agenda of Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, the sector has benefited from improved infrastructure, enhanced connectivity and decentralised tourism growth across the country.
Zimbabwe’s double triumph at ITB Berlin 2026 therefore represents more than a moment of celebration—it signals the confident emergence of a competitive, inclusive and world-class destination ready to welcome travellers from around the globe.
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