ZIMBABWE has won the bid to host the Third United Nations (UN) Women in Tourism Regional Congress set for 2026. This emerged at the 68th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa meeting in Nigeria.
It was a double triumph for Destination Zimbabwe as it was again elected vice president of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly set for Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in November.
The vote of confidence comes in recognition of the resounding work of the tourism patron, the First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, through initiatives such as Gastronomy Tourism, Women’s Market Galore, Farm to Market, Agri4She and AgroTourism4She.
Speaking on the sidelines of the meeting, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi, highlighted how Zimbabwe has become one of Africa’s best destinations after its successful hosting of the UN Gastronomy Conference last year.
“Tourism is more than traveling to visit historical sites, waterfalls, mountains, and parks. It is an engine of local economies transformed by technology and creativity. African nations need to redefine their global identity through the vibrance of their people, rich cultural heritage, and natural endowments. Zimbabwe is indeed the new frontier in world tourism, given its huge potential and limitless opportunities for innovation and creativity,” she said.
Running under the theme: “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries in Africa,” the meeting highlights the future of Africa’s prosperity as it uses technology to empower people.
The high-profile summit, attended by ministers, delegates from 51 African nations, and global tourism leaders, emphasised innovation, sustainability, and African cultural identity as key to unlocking the continent’s economic potential.
Zimbabwe received the highest votes, followed by Kenya, Seychelles, Zambia, Angola, Morocco, South Africa, Mozambique, and Tunisia.
These remarkable achievements reflect Zimbabwe’s growing influence in shaping global tourism, driven by innovation, inclusivity, and a dynamic growth trajectory.
While the global industry is valued at over US$11 trillion, Africa accounts for less than five percent of global tourism revenue and under one percent of global creative exports.
Secretary General of UN Tourism, Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvi, underscored tourism as the future of Africa, saying the continent is indeed the new frontier in world tourism, given its huge potential and limitless opportunities for innovation and creativity.
