Zimbabwe’s tourism sector continues to show steady growth, driven by sustained promotion from local citizens, influencers, and international visitors who have increasingly shared positive experiences of the country. From its landscapes and wildlife to its culture and people, Zimbabwe has remained a strong destination. However, challenges around ageing infrastructure remain, and authorities have acknowledged the need for continued investment to improve the overall visitor experience and support long-term growth.
In a move seen as part of this broader effort, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Barbara Rwodzi, has appointed new boards for the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, signalling a renewed focus on governance, infrastructure development, and modern tourism marketing.
The appointments were confirmed at a press briefing on Tuesday and are intended to align the sector with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), as well as Zimbabwe’s broader ambition of becoming an upper-middle-income economy by 2030.
The ZTA board will be chaired by Farai Chimba, an experienced hotelier, with Lizzie Makwezwa serving as vice chairperson. Makwezwa brings more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality sector, having worked with both local and international hotel brands. Minister Rwodzi said the new board brings strong expertise that will help strengthen the authority’s promotional and destination-marketing strategies.
“These board members bring immense experience and expertise that will be invaluable in providing strategic guidance and robust oversight, ensuring the institution strengthens its promotion strategies,” she said.
At the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company, which oversees government investments in the Victoria Falls special economic zone, Civil Engineer Phineas Makombe has been appointed chairperson. He is deputised by Sheila Hawa Sidambe, who returns to the board after previously serving for four years.
Minister Rwodzi said the board would play an enabling role in unlocking tourism infrastructure development and facilitating high-value investment projects in Victoria Falls, one of Zimbabwe’s most important tourism hubs.
With renewed leadership at key tourism institutions, government officials say the focus now shifts to execution, improving infrastructure, strengthening destination marketing, and ensuring Zimbabwe’s growing visibility translates into sustained visitor confidence and long-term economic benefits.
