Zimbabwe scoops top global Tourism Awards at ITB Berlin 2026

Zimbabwe's aggressive push to reposition itself as a leading global travel destination has received major international recognition after the country secured two prestigious accolades at the ITB Berlin 2026 PATWA Awards in Germany.

At one of the world's largest travel trade platforms, Zimbabwe was crowned Destination of the Year – Natural Wonders, while Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Honourable Barbara Rwodzi was named Tourism Minister of the Year – Africa.

The double recognition marks a significant milestone in Zimbabwe's tourism resurgence and highlights the country's growing visibility on the global travel stage.

The awards are widely seen as an endorsement of the tourism growth strategy under President Emmerson Mnangagwa's Vision 2030 agenda, which identifies tourism as a key pillar for economic transformation.

President Mnangagwa launched the Zimbabwe Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy (2025–2030) on August 4, 2025, a five-year framework designed to transform the sector into a US$5 billion industry while laying the foundation for a US$10 billion tourism economy by 2030.

The policy emphasises sustainable and heritage-based tourism while targeting increased investment, improved air connectivity and greater community participation in the sector.

Authorities say the strategy is anchored on sustainability, innovation and eco-friendly practices, with key focus areas including infrastructure development, enhanced international marketing and stronger conservation efforts.

Government believes the plan will boost foreign currency earnings, create jobs and attract new investment into the tourism sector, aligning with the broader Vision 2030 objective of building an upper-middle-income economy alongside key sectors such as agriculture and mining.

Zimbabwe's tourism appeal is anchored by world-renowned natural attractions such as Victoria Falls and vast protected wilderness areas that cover nearly 30 percent of the country.

Flagship destinations including Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park, Gonarezhou National Park, Matobo Hills, Chinhoyi Caves and the Great Zimbabwe monument continue to attract global travellers seeking authentic and high-quality safari experiences.

Minister Rwodzi's recognition also reflects policy reforms aimed at diversifying the sector through a 12-cluster tourism development strategy that includes gastronomy, medical, cultural, sports and adventure tourism.

Zimbabwe recently hosted the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa, further strengthening its continental leadership in emerging tourism niches.

The momentum is also being reinforced by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority under its new chief executive, Dr George Manyaya, whose compliance and enforcement drive is beginning to reshape the sector.

A nationwide inspection blitz targeting unregistered tourism facilities, running until March 15, has already seen more than 35 facilities closed within two days, demonstrating a firm commitment to quality standards, visitor safety and fair competition.

Industry analysts say the crackdown is likely to boost investor confidence while protecting Zimbabwe's global tourism brand at a time when international visibility is rising.

With endorsements from global platforms, including recognition by Forbes as a must-visit destination, Zimbabwe's tourism growth trajectory continues to gain momentum.

The twin triumph at ITB Berlin signals that Zimbabwe's tourism strategy is yielding results, combining aggressive global marketing with stronger governance at home and positioning the country as an award-winning and investment-ready destination.