By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu says Kariba Regional Tourism Development and Marketing Strategy will be a game changer if effectively implemented.
Speaking at the launch of the strategy Thursday, Minister Ndlovu said Kariba Region would transform into a must visit and competitive destination as measured by increased arrivals, tourism expenditure, average room occupancies and length of stay.
“Special thanks go Kariba Region Revival Committee led by Mr Quintin De Lang for steering the ship.
“l am confident this marks a giant step towards the revival and growth tourism in Kariba and the Mashonaland West Province at large,” Ndlovu said.
He called on environmentally and climate sustainable programmes in the implementation of the strategy.
“As we move towards implementation of this strategy, let us be mindful of the need to adhere to environmentally and climate sustainable programmes.
Climate change is real and we should not be left behind in greening the tourism sector in this region,” he said.
“To ensure that this does not just become a document to be shelved and gather dust, there is need to put in place a Monitoring and Evaluation framework Committee to regularly track progress on the implementation and keep everyone informed as spelt in the Strategy.
“Be assured, I shall keep my thumb on this matter!”
Over time the region and Kariba in particular, has been a favourable destination for both domestic, regional and international tourists.
In early 2000s, visitors would throng Kariba in their thousands to enjoy the heat, game viewing, casino, tiger tournament, fishing, spending nights in house boats as well as experiencing its rich historical and cultural heritage.
However, this market segment literally sunk into oblivion due to a number of factors, most of which the Strategy would address in a more sustainable manner.
Tourism in Kariba is the main economic activity, creating jobs and sustaining livelihoods for many households.
Ndlovu said government will support the sector in the region to not only realise its full potential, but to also grow through the diversification of tourism products.
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