The government is committed to facilitating investment in the tourism and
hospitality industry as it has immense potential to drive economic growth
and development of the country, a cabinet Minister said on Friday.
Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Barbra Rwodzi said this during the
launch of the tourism investment matchmaking platform in the second
largest city.
The matchmaking platform, which is the brainchild of the Zimbabwe
Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) with assistance from the
Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), aims to provide equal opportunities
for all stakeholders to participate and benefit from the tourism sector
under one roof using an internet application.
It serves as a space for local and foreign investors, operators and
communities to explore and access tourism investment opportunities.
Rwodzi said the platform is testament to the committment of ther
government to transparency, accountability and inclusivity.
“By supporting this initiative, we are creating an enabling environment
that encourages investment, job creation, and sustainable resource
management.
“I would like to express my gratitude to the Zimbabwe Investment and
Development Agency for their dedication and efforts in spearheading the
Tourism Investment Matchmaking platform. Together we can unlock the full
potential of our tourism and hospitality and can create a brighter
future for all Zimbabweans,” she said.
She said the endorsement of the initiative aligns with the broader goals
of the government outlined in the National Development Strategy (NDS1).
Speaking on the same occasion, ZIDA chief executive officer, Tafadzwa
Chinamo said investment is central to growth and sustainable
development, adding that it expands an economy`s productive capacity and
drives job creation and income growth.
“We appreciate that one-size approach does not fit all sectors. In
collaboration with the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority, we are developing
tailored activities, approaches and strategies that are suitable for the
tourism sector,” he said.
Chinamo said the platform is designed to bring together tourism
promoters and investors seamlessly and efficiently.
“Our goal is to make it easier than ever for investors to find the right
opportunities in the tourism sector and for promoters to access the
capital and expertise they need to grow their businesses.
“On the other hand, our platform allows local and international
investors to connect with tourism promoters in Zimbabwe and express
their investment interest to them,” he said.
To access the platform, Chinamo said, investors and tourism promoters
need to register and submit relevant information, such as their contact
details, investment, and additional information as per each interest.
According to the NDS1, the tourism sector is one of the key pillars of
the economy and expected to contribute at least US$600 million to total
capital investments as the country targets a US$5 billion tourism
economy by year 2025.
New Ziana
