By Jonathan Mbiriyamveka
HARARE – The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has marked a historic turning point, convening its inaugural Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 16 June 2026 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Harare—a milestone hailed as the beginning of a new chapter of transparency, accountability, and stakeholder confidence.
The landmark gathering, attended by key industry players, government officials, and tourism stakeholders, signals a decisive break from the governance challenges that previously plagued the Authority and led to the suspension of the previous Board.
Speaking on behalf of Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, Permanent Secretary Dr. Takaruza Munyanyiwa told delegates that the AGM was far more than a statutory obligation.
“This gathering marks a significant milestone in strengthening governance, accountability, transparency and stakeholder engagement within our tourism sector,” Dr. Munyanyiwa said.
“The convening of this inaugural AGM reflects the Authority’s commitment to sound corporate governance, institutional renewal and responsible leadership.
It marks the beginning of a new chapter for ZTA, founded on stakeholder confidence, performance excellence and accountability.”
A Comprehensive Reform Process
The Minister acknowledged the governance challenges that necessitated the suspension of the previous Board, revealing that Government had undertaken a comprehensive reform process aimed at restoring accountability, institutional credibility, and public confidence.
“We are pleased that this process has culminated in the appointment of a substantive Board and Chief Executive Officer, laying a firm foundation for a stronger and more effective Authority,” he said.
Dr. Munyanyiwa commended Board Chairperson Mr. Farai Chimba, Management led by Dr. George M. Manyaya, and the entire ZTA team for their commitment to rebuilding systems, strengthening governance structures, and restoring stakeholder confidence.
Good Governance: The Cornerstone of Sustainability
The Minister emphasised that good governance remains the cornerstone of sustainable institutions, urging the Board and Management to continue fostering a culture of professionalism, integrity, ethical leadership, and prudent stewardship of public resources.
As a State-Owned Enterprise, Dr. Munyanyiwa noted, ZTA is expected to uphold the highest standards of corporate governance in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Public Entities Corporate Governance Act, the Public Finance Management Act, Vision 2030, and the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
A Platform for the Future
The AGM, she explained, provides an important platform for reviewing performance, strengthening accountability, and collectively shaping the future direction of the Authority.
“I encourage the Board, Management and Staff of ZTA to continue building an institution that exemplifies excellence, accountability and good corporate governance,” Dr Munyanyiwa said.
“Let us work together to build a tourism sector that is competitive, inclusive, resilient and transformative; one that contributes meaningfully to Vision 2030, advances the objectives of NDS2 and showcases the very best of Zimbabwe to the world.”
The Minister also expressed appreciation to the Office of the President and Cabinet, particularly the Corporate Governance Unit, for its continued support in strengthening governance systems and ensuring compliance with national frameworks.
Tourism: A Strategic Economic Pillar
Dr. Munyanyiwa reiterated that tourism remains one of Zimbabwe’s most strategic economic sectors and a key pillar in the attainment of Vision 2030.
“Tourism continues to drive economic growth, employment creation, foreign currency generation, investment attraction, infrastructure development and community empowerment,” he said.
“Its benefits extend across multiple sectors, including agriculture, transport, manufacturing, construction, arts and culture, making tourism a powerful catalyst for inclusive and sustainable development.”
A Heritage-Based Model
Under the visionary leadership of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe has embraced a heritage-based tourism development model that leverages the country’s rich cultural heritage, gastronomy, wildlife, arts, history, and traditions.
“This approach is increasingly defining Destination Zimbabwe while ensuring that communities actively participate in and benefit from tourism development,” he said.
The Road Ahead
As the inaugural AGM concluded, the message from Government was clear: the era of governance challenges is behind ZTA.
The future is one of accountability, transparency, and ambitious tourism growth.
“Allow me to congratulate you once again on successfully convening this historic Inaugural Annual General Meeting,” Dr. Munyanyiwa said.
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