mbulelo smpofu
Leonard Ncube, leonard.ncube@chronicle.co.zw
IMAGINE arriving at an airport or border post in a foreign country and being personally welcomed by a smiling Government minister, assuring you of exceptional hospitality throughout your stay.
This was the unique experience for visitors arriving in Victoria Falls yesterday as Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Barbara Rwodzi, led a “meet and greet” initiative, interacting with both local and foreign tourists.
The exercise, part of a nationwide campaign by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in partnership with stakeholders, is designed to market Zimbabwe as a welcoming and hospitable destination.
The gesture reinforced Victoria Falls’ reputation as a premier world-class travel destination.
Minister Rwodzi personally welcomed travellers at Victoria Falls International Airport, Kazungula, and Victoria Falls border posts.
She also held brief meetings with representatives of various stakeholders operating at these key entry points.
Her warm approach of greeting, chatting, hugging, laughing and even posing for photos with tourists left many visitors in awe. Some described the gesture as unprecedented, as the minister even shared her personal contact details with them.
Among those touched by Minister Rwodzi’s warmth was Professor Sankara Berhane Selassie, an engineering lecturer from Kenya, travelling with his wife Victoria, an investment advisor and their children.
Prof Selassie said the family had toured 10 African countries, but Zimbabwe’s hospitality stood out.
“Zimbabwe is a great place to visit, with very friendly people. We have been to 10 countries and this is the first place where we were welcomed by a minister. That is the highlight of our journey so far, as we haven’t met anyone of her rank in other countries,” he said.
At Victoria Falls International Airport, Minister Rwodzi welcomed Mr Jenitha Varughese from Johannesburg, South Africa, who was visiting with his family of eight for a five-day vacation.
“Victoria Falls has always been on our travel list, and this trip has been in the works for a long time,” said Mr Varughese.
At Kazungula, Minister Rwodzi greeted a group of 11 German tourists who had travelled through Namibia and Botswana. The group, staying in Victoria Falls for two days, expressed their excitement about exploring local attractions.
In an interview, Minister Rwodzi acknowledged the rarity of such a gesture but emphasised its significant impact.
“We are here to fulfil our mandate and support the President’s Whole-of-Government approach to achieve Vision 2030. As ministers, we agreed to come together during peak seasons to ensure smooth transitions for tourists. First impressions are crucial, and we want visitors to feel comfortable and welcome from the moment they arrive,” she said.
“It’s rare to have a minister personally welcome visitors, but in our ministry, it’s part of our strategy. The impact of such a gesture is profound, as it shows that we value our guests. Our goal is to ensure visitors enjoy their stay and even extend it.”
Minister Rwodzi revealed that several strategies are being implemented under the new tourism policy, including deploying tourism officers to all ports of entry next year.
The “meet and greet” initiative is being conducted across the country by the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry. Deputy Minister Tongai Mnangagwa is leading similar efforts in Bulawayo and Plumtree, while the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Takaruza Munyanyiwa, is in Beitbridge. Directors from the ministry are stationed at Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare. — @ncubeleon
