Story by Owen Mandovha
THE Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) is undergoing a significant transformation aligned with the National Development Strategy Two (NDS2), as the parastatal held its first-ever Annual General Meeting in Harare on Wednesday.
The meeting marks a historic milestone for the authority, which has held its inaugural AGM since its incorporation in 1996.
Under new management, the organisation says it is not only strengthening compliance with corporate governance requirements but has also charted a renewed strategic path aimed at reinvigorating the tourism sector towards contributing to a US$5 billion economy by 2030.
“ZTA is taking a new strategic path to promote the country’s tourism industry. Our AGM is a demonstration of such a transformation to uphold the corporate governance principles that create a robust organisation,” Chairperson ZTA, Mr Farai Chimba said.
“ZTA has turned a corner in terms of corporate governance, and we are putting things right as required by the Second Republic to transform parastatals, and we are poised to spearhead the growth of the industry,” CEO ZTA, Dr George Manyaya said.
The private sector has welcomed the renewed focus, with the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe expressing confidence in the authority’s direction, saying a strong regulator is key to creating a conducive operating environment for the sector.
“This AGM is significant and gives us confidence as the private sector, as ZTA plays a big role in creating a conducive environment to operate,” Acting CEO – Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe, Mr Christopher Sithole said.
The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry says parastatals remain central to driving economic growth under the Second Republic.
“Government remains committed to making ZIMBABWE a top tourism destination, and ZTA should lead in that role, and we will grant ZTA the support that it requires to transform the industry,” Permanent Secretary Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Dr Takaruza Munyanyiwa said.
Last year, Zimbabwe was adjudged Destination of the Year Natural Wonders by the International Tourism Bourse in recognition of efforts to position the country as a competitive global tourism destination.
