Minister Rwodzi: Local tourism pricing prevents Zimbabweans from enjoying national attractions

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi has acknowledged that many Zimbabweans are unable to enjoy local tourism facilities due to high costs, particularly those charged in foreign currency.

Responding to questions in Parliament, Rwodzi said most operators price services in US dollars, disadvantaging domestic tourists. "When a Zimbabwean visits a facility, they are supposed to be using our local currency," she said, adding that differential pricing should reflect whether a visitor is local or international.

She noted that the Ministry is working to amend legislation to address this imbalance and promote affordability for families, couples, and individuals.

Despite these challenges, Rwodzi emphasised that domestic tourism remains the sector's largest contributor, accounting for 17% of GDP growth. She highlighted MICE tourism - meetings, incentives, conferences, and events - as a major driver, alongside weddings and local travel.

While the recent Forbes Magazine recognition of Zimbabwe as a top destination was not directly linked to domestic tourism, Rwodzi stressed the need to make leisure travel more accessible to ordinary citizens.