Culture and tourism move together, says Rwodzi
HARARE - Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi says culture and tourism are inseparable pillars of African integration, economic growth and people-to-people connectivity.
Speaking during a Tourism and Culture Night event, Rwodzi said cultural exchanges play a vital role in bringing African nations closer together as member states explore ways of strengthening tourism cooperation through the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA).
"As we deliberate on COMESA, we must strengthen connectivity in tourism," she said.
Rwodzi noted that culture provides a unique platform for fostering relationships among people from different countries and backgrounds.
"It is a powerful instrument when we share a meal together. You become closer when you eat and drink together," she said.
According to the minister, shared cultural experiences create opportunities for mutual understanding and strengthen regional unity.
She said Africa's common heritage and identity provide a strong foundation for cooperation and integration.
"Africa is one, and COMESA has brought us together," said Rwodzi.
The minister also highlighted the importance of regional tourism initiatives that simplify travel and encourage cross-border tourism.
She cited the KAZA UniVisa programme as one of the continent's successful examples of regional cooperation in tourism.
The KAZA UniVisa allows easier travel among participating countries within the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area, including Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana and Namibia, enabling visitors to move across borders under a simplified visa arrangement.
Rwodzi said initiatives that combine cultural promotion with improved travel facilitation have the potential to strengthen tourism growth, stimulate economic activity and enhance regional integration.
She added that cultural tourism provides opportunities for communities to preserve and showcase their heritage while creating employment and business opportunities.
The minister's remarks come as African countries continue exploring ways to boost intra-African tourism, strengthen regional connectivity and position culture as a catalyst for economic development.
