Digital Transformation geared to boost tourism in Zimbabwe
Effective use and utilization of information, communication technologies will make Zimbabwe more competitive and create easier means by which travelers can find out about Zimbabwe and make bookings for accommodation and enjoy the country’s tourism products. This was revealed during the opening of the Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe 2018 Tourism Convention in Victoria Falls recently by the Acting President of Zimbabwe Kembo Mohadi.
This year Convention theme is ” Tourism open to Business and the Digital Transformation ” which emphasizes the importance of digital transformation in tourism and hospitality industry. Tourism is the fastest and biggest growing industries whose benefits positively affects the economic, social, environmental sectors of Zimbabwe.
“The tourism industry should significantly contribute towards the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which the country also subscribe to. We should see the promotion of an inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all, I urge you to formulate and implement policies that promote local culture and products”, said Acting President Of Zimbabwe, Kembo Mohadi.
He also said the government of Zimbabwe regards tourism as an engine for economic development as tourism is one of the four economic pillars of Zimbabwe economy among agriculture, mining and manufacturing sectors.
Tourism sector continue to recover as witnessed by a total of 2 422 930 tourist arrivals in 2017,which represents a 12 percent increase from the 2 167 686 tourists received in 2016. Victoria Falls occupancies for January and February 2018 also indicate a 22 percent and 24 percent increase respectively. Revenue in Victoria Falls shot up by 20 percent while 18 new properties have been developed to date and among them is The Zambezi Island Lodge, The River Brewery, The Old Drift Lodge, The Great Plain Lodge, Nguni Boutique Lodge, Mbano Manor Lodge, The Ilala Lodge added 18 additional rooms and the Victoria Falls Safari Club has been newly refurbished.
“The positive effects of tourism in this country’s economy should include the growth and development of various industries directly linked to a healthy tourism industry such as transportation, construction, wildlife, creative and cultural industries. The communities and the peoples who are at the tourist attractions should also be transformed. Government will continue to create one stop border posts that will operate efficiently and provide a speedy and friendly service to all users”, said the Acting President of Zimbabwe.
