BY NOKUTHABA DLAMINI
Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality minister Nqobizitha Ndhlovu on Thursday launched the Kariba Regional Tourism Development and Strategy in Kariba as the tourism sector tries to recover from the effects of Covid-19 pandemic.
The launch came after numerous stakeholder engagements, which were scuppered by the Covid 19 outbreak, especially over the period 2020-2021.
Minister Ndhlovu expressed appreciation to the tourism industry for working on the plan in spite of the Covid-19 pandemic
“Let me express my heartfelt appreciation for not giving up on this process against the backdrop of the Covid-19 and the challenging business environment this great destination has been experiencing over the years,” Ndhlovu said.
“Thank you once again for the commitment to work towards the success of the Kariba Region,
“Over time, the region and Kariba, in particular, has been a favourable destination for both domestic, regional, and international tourists.
” It may be recalled that in the early 2000s, visitors would throng Kariba in their thousands to enjoy the heat, game viewing, casino, tiger tournament, fishing, spending nights in house boats as well as experiencing its rich historical and cultural heritage. However, this market segment literally has sunk into oblivion due to a number of factors, most of which l believe, the Strategy we are launching today will address in a more sustainable manner. ” said Ndhlovu.
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive Winnie Muchanyuka revealed that the strategy was developed using an action matrix that entailed coming up with a robust development and marketing plan.
” The plan intends to address issues critical to Kariba,” she revealed.
“These were more on the supply and demand side.
“The supply side focused on accessibility, accommodation, activities, and attractions.
“While on the demand side focused largely on the change of travellers and behaviour.” she said.
The industry was led by the Tourism Business Council Wengai Nhau and the Kariba Regional Tourism Revival Committee chairman Quinten de Lange.