By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
As Zimbabwe takes its Tourism story to the world, the country is turning growing global recognition into greater destination visibility, expanded market reach and sustainable Tourism growth.
On the sidelines of the ongoing 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York, the Zimbabwean delegation, led by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, is advancing the National Agenda of branding and positioning Zimbabwe under the National Development Strategy 2.
Against this backdrop, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive Officer, Dr. George Manyaya, engaged senior CNN executives — Phil Wilson, Vice President of CNN International; Zara Driss, CNN Sales Director; and Imran Ahmad, Regional Representative for Africa and Central Asia — to explore a strategic media partnership that would amplify Zimbabwe’s Tourism story on the global stage.
The proposed partnership presents an opportunity to strengthen Zimbabwe’s presence in international travel conversations, introduce the destination to new audiences and markets, and showcase the country as both a compelling Tourism destination and an attractive investment destination.
For Zimbabwe, the CNN opportunity goes beyond destination promotion. It provides a platform to tell a broader story about the country’s Tourism investment potential across the value chain — connecting global audiences with opportunities in accommodation, attractions, conservation, heritage, culture, gastronomy, adventure and other areas of the Tourism economy.
With CNN’s extensive international reach, the platform could help Zimbabwe connect with millions of potential Tourists, travel influencers, business leaders and Tourism investors across key global markets.
The opportunity comes at a time when international recognition of Zimbabwe as a Tourism destination is growing. Forbes Magazine recognised Zimbabwe as its Number One Must-Visit Destination for 2025, while the United States has emerged as Zimbabwe’s leading overseas source market, with Tourist arrivals increasing from 18,756 in 2021 to 109,959 in 2025.
The strategic focus now is to convert this recognition and growing visibility into increased Tourist Arrivals, longer stays, higher Tourism expenditure and greater Investment.
From the majesty of its Natural Wonders and Wildlife to its rich Heritage, Culture, Gastronomy and Adventure experiences, Zimbabwe has a diverse Tourism proposition waiting to be discovered by the world.
Zimbabwe has the story. Now, the world is listening.
#CNN
#ExperienceZimbabwe
#NhakaYedu
#IlifaLethu
#OurHeritage
#ThisIsUs
#ZimBho
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