By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka

Zimbabwe has taken another significant step in expanding its international tourism footprint, strengthening engagement with Australia’s travel trade through a high-level Tourism Industry Roundtable held in Sydney.

Convened by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), and the Zimbabwe Embassy in Australia, the event brought together more than 50 Australian tour wholesalers, tour operators and travel agencies at the Ace Hotel.

The engagement forms part of Zimbabwe’s Ko broader strategy to grow market share, stimulate destination demand and unlock new tourism business opportunities in one of its key long-haul source markets.

Addressing industry leaders, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, reaffirmed Zimbabwe’s Engagement and Re-engagement agenda, guided by the principles of “Zimbabwe is Open for Business” and “Zimbabwe is a Friend to All and an Enemy to None.”

She positioned Zimbabwe as a safe, peaceful and competitive African destination for leisure, business and investment tourism, while underscoring the long-standing ties between Zimbabwe and Australia.

Emphasising tourism as a key pillar of economic growth, Minister Rwodzi showcased Zimbabwe’s world-renowned attractions, including the majestic Victoria Falls, the iconic Great Zimbabwe World Heritage Site, the tranquil waters of Lake Kariba, the wildlife-rich Hwange National Park and the scenic Eastern Highlands.

She encouraged Australian travel partners to promote longer visitor stays, noting that extended holidays create greater tourism value through increased visitor spending and broader benefits for local communities.

The Minister also highlighted Zimbabwe’s cluster-based tourism development strategy, which is expanding opportunities across rural, religious, community-based, cultural and heritage, and sports tourism.

Particular attention was drawn to the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup, which Zimbabwe will co-host with Namibia and South Africa, presenting a unique opportunity to combine world-class cricket with unforgettable wildlife safaris, cultural experiences and heritage tours.

Further boosting confidence in the destination, Minister Rwodzi outlined Government’s ongoing efforts to improve accessibility through enhanced air and road connectivity.

She announced that Air Zimbabwe’s Harare-London service is scheduled to commence on 22 July 2026, a milestone expected to strengthen international access and support sustained growth in tourist arrivals.

The roundtable concluded with vibrant Zimbabwean music and cultural performances, offering Australian travel professionals a taste of the country’s rich heritage and warm hospitality.

The showcase reinforced Zimbabwe’s appeal as a diverse and authentic destination while laying the foundation for stronger tourism partnerships, increased visitor arrivals, greater investment and sustainable growth in the sector.