By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
DURBAN — Zimbabwe is making a bold statement at Africa’s premier travel trade show this week, with a 44-strong delegation of tourism operators showcasing the country’s diverse attractions to nearly 1,000 international buyers at the Africa Travel Indaba 2026.
The event, underway in Durban from 11–14 May 2026, has drawn 999 buyers from 44 countries, 1,225 exhibitors, and representatives from 18 airlines, offering Zimbabwean operators a high-stakes platform to secure business deals, attract investment, and expand market access.
Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Tongai Mafidi Mnangagwa, joined fellow African tourism ministers and deputy ministers at a prestigious Ministers Dinner hosted by South Africa’s Minister of Tourism, Patricia de Lille, underscoring the growing spirit of regional tourism cooperation.
“The Indaba presents immense opportunities for Zimbabwean operators to secure business deals, attract investment and expand market access,” the Deputy Minister’s office noted, as the country continues to position itself as a competitive and attractive destination driving Africa’s tourism growth story forward.
Zimbabwe’s pavilion has been drawing steady interest, with operators promoting the country’s iconic attractions including the world-famous Victoria Falls, the cool, misty Eastern Highlands, the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park, and the ancient stone ruins of Great Zimbabwe.
The annual Indaba, regarded as Africa’s largest travel trade show, serves as a critical meeting point for continental and international tourism players.
For Zimbabwe, the event follows a sustained push to rebuild international visitor numbers and highlight the country’s diverse offerings beyond its traditional safari and waterfall circuits.
Industry analysts say Zimbabwe’s active participation signals growing confidence in the country’s tourism sector, especially as regional air links improve and investment in hospitality infrastructure expands.
With two days remaining, Zimbabwean operators are expected to continue networking and negotiating deals aimed at boosting arrivals and showcasing the country’s unique cultural and natural heritage to the world.
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