VICTORIA FALLS – Zimbabwe’s growing influence in regional tourism development received a major boost after First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa was commended by Ministers from the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) for her outstanding contribution towards promoting inclusive tourism and empowering communities through travel and cultural heritage initiatives.
The recognition was made during the 16th KAZA TFCA Ministerial Committee Meeting held in Victoria Falls, where ministers from Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe applauded the First Lady’s efforts in opening tourism opportunities to ordinary citizens, particularly women who have historically been excluded from participating in the sector.
A key initiative that drew regional admiration was the groundbreaking programme that enabled more than 10,000 women from all corners of Zimbabwe to visit Victoria Falls, one of the world’s most iconic natural wonders. The initiative, which coincided with the Second UN Tourism Regional Congress on Women, demonstrated how tourism can be transformed from an elite activity into a powerful tool for social inclusion, economic participation and national pride.
Tourism experts say the programme has helped stimulate domestic tourism while exposing thousands of women to business opportunities linked to hospitality, culture, crafts and conservation. The initiative has also strengthened awareness of the vital role communities play in preserving natural heritage for future generations.
Beyond domestic tourism promotion, Dr Mnangagwa has emerged as a leading advocate for gastronomy tourism, championing Zimbabwe’s indigenous foods, traditional culinary practices and local agricultural products as valuable tourism assets. Her efforts have elevated Zimbabwe’s cultural identity on the global stage while creating opportunities for women and small-scale producers to participate in the tourism value chain.
The recognition by KAZA ministers comes at a time when Zimbabwe is intensifying efforts to leverage tourism as a key pillar of economic growth under Vision 2030. Through strategic investments in conservation, infrastructure development and community-based tourism, the country continues to position itself as a competitive destination within Southern Africa.
KAZA TFCA, which covers parts of Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe, is the largest transfrontier conservation area in the world, encompassing approximately 520,000 square kilometres of protected ecosystems and wildlife habitats. The conservation area plays a crucial role in promoting sustainable tourism, biodiversity protection and cross-border economic cooperation.
Regional leaders noted that initiatives that promote community participation and inclusivity are essential for ensuring that tourism benefits reach grassroots communities while strengthening conservation efforts across the region.
The commendation of the First Lady underscores Zimbabwe’s growing reputation as a leader in people-centred tourism development and reflects the country’s commitment to ensuring that tourism serves as a catalyst for empowerment, cultural preservation and sustainable economic transformation.
