Zimbabwe experienced a 19 percent increase in tourist arrivals, reaching 381,293 in the second quarter of this year, up from 320,592 during the same period last year, reflecting the ongoing recovery in global tourism.

In the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic, many nations implemented travel restrictions and lockdowns to mitigate the spread of the virus, which resulted in millions of fatalities worldwide.

As countries successfully managed the pandemic, they began to ease these restrictions in 2022, adopting safety protocols and guidelines endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

The United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) anticipates that international tourism will return to pre-pandemic levels this year.

Tourism is a vital and rapidly growing sector in Zimbabwe, poised to play a crucial role in the nation’s economic recovery. The government has made notable progress in executing the National Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy, which aims to expand the tourism economy to US$5 billion by next year. This strategy is built on Zimbabwe's aspiration to become a leading international tourist destination through the sustainable and responsible use of its unique natural, cultural, and historical resources.

The strategy aligns with the government's Vision 2030, which seeks to transform the country into an upper middle-income society characterized by increased investment, quality employment opportunities, and a population free from poverty and corruption.

According to the Treasury Quarterly Bulletin for April to June, the increase in international tourist arrivals can also be attributed to the marketing initiatives of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, which has effectively showcased the country as a distinctive and attractive destination.

The notable increase in international tourist arrivals is linked to the ongoing recovery of global tourism and advancements in transportation infrastructure that have improved accessibility. Additionally, the marketing initiatives by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) have effectively positioned Zimbabwe as a distinctive and attractive destination.

In the reviewed quarter, Zimbabwe welcomed a total of 254,869 tourists from Africa, compared to 235,828 during the same period last year.

The Americas ranked second in tourist arrivals to Zimbabwe for the quarter ending June 30, 2024, with 36,107 visitors, marking a 54.7 percent rise from 23,334 in the same timeframe last year.

From Asia, Zimbabwe received 24,582 tourists in the second quarter, reflecting a 63.3 percent increase from 15,056 in 2023, while European arrivals rose by 40.8 percent to 54,872 from 38,958.

Conversely, tourist arrivals from the Middle East saw a decline of 44.6 percent, dropping to 1,131 from 2,042 in the previous year, whereas arrivals from Oceania surged by 81.1 percent to 9,732 from 5,374.

During this period, Zimbabwe also experienced an increase in average hotel occupancy rates, rising from 46 percent in the second quarter of 2023 to 50 percent.

As a result, tourism receipts are projected to have grown by 15 percent, increasing from US$220 million in 2023 to US$252 million in 2024, driven by the rise in international tourism and enhanced domestic spending, according to the quarterly bulletin.

Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi has stated that the remarkable growth observed in Zimbabwe's tourism and hospitality sector is attributed to her ministry's innovative industry strategy. This strategy intentionally prioritizes the nation's heritage, highlighting the importance of its people and culture, as well as its flora, fauna, geology, landscapes, and the unique food culture. These elements are crucial in establishing Zimbabwe's competitive edge in the industry.