Staff Writer
There’s a new reason to celebrate in Zimbabwe—and it’s written in gold.
The country has just scooped the Gold Award in the Internet and Media Category at the prestigious 2026 Chinese Tourist Welcome (CTW) Awards, presented by the China Outbound Tourism Research Institute (COTRI).
It’s not just a trophy; it’s a statement. A statement that Zimbabwe isn’t just open for business—it’s winning hearts and minds halfway across the world.
This international recognition is a powerful nod to Zimbabwe’s creativity, hustle, and vision in destination marketing.
More than that, it’s a testament to the growing bond between Zimbabwe and China—a friendship that’s now being celebrated on one of the world’s biggest tourism stages.
How Zimbabwe Caught China’s Eye
So, what made the difference? Bold thinking and digital savvy.
At the heart of the campaign was a Key Opinion Leader (KOL) programme that brought some of China’s most influential travel content creators to Zimbabwe’s doorstep.
These digital storytellers didn’t just take photos—they captured magic. From the thunderous spray of Victoria Falls to the ancient whispers of Great Zimbabwe, they shared it all with millions of followers across Douyin, WeChat, and Xiaohongshu. The result? A wave of wanderlust that turned Zimbabwe from a distant name into a dream destination.
But the ingenuity didn’t stop there. In a stroke of marketing brilliance, Zimbabwe took its story to the tracks—literally. The Victoria Falls China High-Speed Rail advertorial campaign turned train journeys across China’s sprawling rail network into moving postcards of Zimbabwe’s beauty. Hundreds of millions of passengers got a front-row seat to the country’s iconic landscapes, transforming everyday commutes into moments of travel inspiration.
A Win for Tourism, a Win for Friendship
This Gold Award is more than a pat on the back—it’s a beacon. It signals that Zimbabwe’s destination brand is not only visible but vibrant, not only competitive but compelling. For Chinese travelers seeking adventure, culture, and warmth, Zimbabwe is now firmly on the map.
As the country continues to innovate and connect with global audiences, this achievement reminds us of one simple truth: when you tell your story with passion and purpose, the world listens—and sometimes, it gives you gold.
The Journey Continues
This award isn’t the finish line—it’s a launchpad. With momentum on its side and a world-class brand to match, Zimbabwe is ready to welcome more visitors, forge more partnerships, and share its wonders with the world.
To the Chinese market: Zvakwana—but there’s always room for more. Come see for yourself.
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