Story by Stanley James, Business Editor
A leading global business magazine, the African Exponent, has confirmed that Zimbabwe was the fifth most visited country last year after attracting more than two million visitors.
The magazine has also included Zimbabwe among the top 23 countries set to attract more visitors this year.
The anticipated increase in visitors is expected to restore viability for the sector which was affected by Covid-19.
“It is an indication of how the sector is coming out of the challenges associated with Covid-19 shocks, so indeed it sends good signals about the future of the sector in restoring viability,” former chairperson of the Association of Zimbabwe Travel Agencies, Mr Ignatious Matungamire said.
The magazine’s findings were confirmed by tourists who are in Zimbabwe, including Ms Debora Swineford from the United States of America.
America-based tourist Ms Debora Swineford said, “The way I have seen several attractions in Zimbabwe is amazing. Indeed, the country has all that it takes to attract more visitors.”
The country’s resort areas and tourist attractions are also expected to attract more visitors this year.
“There are chances that Zimbabwe might even jump upwards in terms of the current rankings due to vast attraction places across the country,” noted Safari Operators Association of Zimbabwe member, Mr George Seremwe.
Zimbabwe is targeting a US$5 billion tourism industry by 2025.
