Minister Rwodzi Applauds Airlines for Playing a Major Part in Tourism
Honorable Barbra Rwodzi, the minister of tourism and hospitality industry, praised the important role that the aviation industry is playing in the tourism sector during the business breakfast meeting held yesterday at the Bulawayo Holiday Inn.
“With respect to destination connectivity we are delighted that Fastjet is now complementing the national carrier on the domestic front with flights to Kariba, Hwange and Victoria Falls. However, more is needed to realize enhanced domestic air connectivity by offering seamless and affordable air fares. On the regional and international front we are delighted that air connectivity is improving as evidenced by the coming in of FlySafair, a leading South African Low-Cost airline, which launched its inaugural flight into Harare on 2 October 2023. The airline has flights between Harare, Johannesburg and Victoria Falls, increasing connectivity and convenience for travelers visiting the famous tourist destination in Zimbabwe.”
“The coming on board of new airlines flying into Zimbabwe is celebrated as aviation is major in stimulating the growth of tourism especially as the country seeks to become one of the key hubs for Meetings, Incentives Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) Tourism in the region. We are therefore happy of the collaborative efforts that exist between the Ministry of Transport and my Ministry
The Minister highlighted the need for a more varied infrastructure for tourism, including affordable to upscale hotels, convention centers, exhibition spaces, and amusement parks. She expressed certainty that Zimbabwe would reach its objective of developing a $5 billion tourism economy by 2025 with increasing investments from local and foreign investors.
She added that the administration will enhance the nation’s road systems, airports, and border crossings, as well as offer investors incentives and laws that would be favorable to their interests. In laying out her vision during the breakfast meeting, the minister placed an emphasis on the reality of climate change and the need for the nation to contribute to the search for long-term solutions for the industry. “Let’s make sure that future generations will still have access to our natural and cultural riches. As we expand our holdings and infrastructure in the industry, adopting sustainable practices and investing in eco-friendly technologies is the way to go.”
