Staff Writer
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi has encouraged private sector to invest in workforce development.
Officially opening Sanganai-Hlanganani World Tourism Expo in Bulawayo Thursday, Rwodzi said the quality of Zimbabwe’s tourism workforce directly impacts the quality of visitors’ experiences.
“Training and upskilling our tourism professionals will not only enhance service quality but also contribute to the overall growth of our sector.
“As an industry it is important to strike a balance between growth and sustainability more so now with the climate change which is proving a challenge across the economy,” she said.
“We understand the private sector’s desire to expand and increase profits, but we must also ensure that our natural and cultural resources are preserved for future generations. I encourage all private sector players to adopt sustainable practices, invest in eco-friendly technologies, and engage in responsible tourism.”
Rwodzi emphasized the need for collaboration saying it is another cornerstone of success.
“First and foremost, I want to emphasize that tourism is a partnership. It’s a relationship between the government and the private sector, where each party brings its unique strengths to the table.
“The government provides the framework, infrastructure, and policies to support tourism, while the private sector brings innovation, investment, and operational expertise. Together, we can create a vibrant and sustainable tourism ecosystem,” she said.
Rwodzi reiterated the importance of our partnership saying the private sector and the government must collaborate to navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead.
“Together, we can elevate our nation as a premier tourist destination, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth,” she said.
The three-day Sangani/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo is a platform that epitomizes the essence of tourism connecting people, cultures and economies.
As one of the pillars of the economy, government is aimed at achieving if not surpass the US$5 Billion Tourism Economy by 2025.
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