KEY POINTS
- ZTA’s re-organization is in line with Vision 2030 and NDS2 objectives.
- Forensic audit completed, paving the way for leadership appointments.
- The tourism sector as a sub-sector is an important avenue for the revival and growth of Zimbabwe’s economy.
The Zimbabwean government has embarked on a process to reform the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) to implement the National Development Strategy (NDS2) and Vision 2030.
The strategy aims to improve the performance of the ZTA as a policy arm of the government involved in marketing the country’s tourism sector, attracting international investment, and significantly boosting the nation’s economic profile.
As recently as in an interview, Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbra Rwodzi was keen on pointing out the need for a reformation of the ZTA in line with the newly adopted vision and strategies by the government.
“The existing structure was established many years ago,” Rwodzi said. “Since then, we have a new government, a new dispensation with a new President who has a new vision and strategy for governance. We are aligning our structures with Vision 2030 and transitioning to NDS2.”
Forensic audit paves the way for a new structure
One of the important and structural steps was the carrying out of a forensic audit. Minister Rwodzi confirmed that the findings had been submitted to the relevant authorities and approved.
“The forensic examination is complete, and we have received the green light for the next steps,” she said. “This includes appointing a new board and implementing a new organizational structure aligned with our ministry’s overall strategy.”
The ZTA has not had a board for more than a year and industry players have stated that the lack of a board is a hindrance to the growth and restoration of the tourism sector.
Moreover, Rwodzi assured that the restructuring process would address this gap. “Very soon, we will have a new board, a CEO, and an executive management team in place to drive our vision forward,” she noted.
Restructuring to align with Vision 2030 and NDS2
The changes to the ZTA are part of the process of a government reorganization to achieve state vision and goals, including Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy.
However, the government seeks to turn the tourism sector into one of the major performers in economic revival and growth through investment, innovation, and sustainability.
According to ZBC News, Rwodzi highlighted the role of tourism as a driver of foreign direct investment and job creation. “Tourism is a critical sector for our economy, and its success directly impacts national development,” she said.
In addition, the same observers argue that once ZTA is revamped and reorganized under an efficient leadership team and properly coordinates the country’s overtures into global markets, Zimbabwe will be well placed to compete for tourism.
