Claim: Mbire Constituency, David Batau claimed that tourists are no longer coming to Zimbabwe because of sanctions and they are told that it is risky to visit Zimbabwe.
“I come from a North Eastern District in Mashonaland Central called Mbire. Our district thrives and survives through tourism and because of sanctions, the tourists do not come anymore. They are told in their countries that there is a lot of chaos in Zimbabwe, it is risky and these things are affecting the livelihoods of the very people that I represent. So, if someone chooses not to take that as sanctions, I take offence,” he said.
Verdict: Misleading
Tourist attractions such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and the Great Zimbabwe ruins, remain accessible to international tourists. Many countries including those in the Western sanction framework, continue to promote tourism in Zimbabwe.
The sanctions in Zimbabwe are primarily imposed by the United States and the European Union. These sanctions are targeted and mainly affect specific individuals, companies and entities associated with human rights abuses, corruption, or undermining democratic processes.
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In Mashonaland Central province there are various exciting wildlife, scenic places and activities which include Nyatsimbe Mutota ruins in Mbire, Dinosaur spoor trail in Chewore, Kanyembe Slaves Bay, fossilised stones at Angwa, Muvhuradhona wilderness amongst others.
According to the latest statistics from Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), Tourism Trends and Statistics Report 2023, the total tourist arrival rose by 54 percent compared to 2022.
The sector is estimated to have generated about US$1.16 billion during the year 2023, a 27 percent rise from US$911 million in 2022.
“The United States maintained its lead in Zimbabwe overseas tourism, securing the top position with a growth from 83.392 to 95. 053 in 2023. China/Hong Kong rose to the third position, showing a remarkable increase in arrivals from 23. 422 in 2022 to 51. 952 in 2023. The United Kingdom (Britain and Ireland) and Germany mantained their top three positions, with the UK Growing from 63. 802 to 69 601 and Germany seeing a modest increase from 23 980 to 25 359,” read the report.
ZTA said Austria and India climbed in the ranking, with Australia moving from the eighth to the seventh position (11 050 to 17 888) and India maintaining a steady presence at the eighth position with 17 125 arrivals.
“Spain declined in ranking, and Nordic countries rose to the ninth position. Italy dropped out of the top 10, suggesting fluctuations in interest and potential areas for further investigations,” said the report.
They said in 2023 transit visitors on tour (leisure and VFR) accounted for nearly half (48 percent) of all visitors.
Read more here: https://zimbabwetourism.net/download-category/tourism-trends-and-statistics/
