Zimbabwe is making waves in the global tourism industry, embracing innovation and technology to drive growth and competitiveness. The country’s progress was showcased during the 26th Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, where it reaffirmed its commitment to transforming tourism through artificial intelligence (AI).

Under the leadership of President Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, Zimbabwe is integrating AI across the tourism value chain, developing digital platforms to enhance destination visibility and offering immersive virtual tours of iconic attractions such as Victoria Falls and the Great Zimbabwe Monuments.

Zimbabwe’s efforts have earned global recognition, with the country elected to the United Nations Tourism Executive Council for 2025–2029, a significant milestone reflecting its growing influence in global tourism governance. As a Council member, Zimbabwe will help guide the strategic direction of global tourism development, with a focus on sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation.

The Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, has played a pivotal role in advancing Zimbabwe’s tourism agenda. She chaired the Fourth Plenary Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly in Riyadh, which focused on institutionalising the UN Tourism Africa and Americas Summit, a key platform for high-level political dialogue, technical collaboration, and follow-up on regional tourism commitments.

In recognition of its leadership, Zimbabwe will host the 23rd Session of the Committee on Tourism and Sustainability and the 2nd UN Tourism Women in Tourism Congress in April 2026, further cementing its role as a driver of sustainable tourism innovation in Africa.