Tinotenda Hove – The Government of Zimbabwe has unveiled a new Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy aimed at promoting sustainable tourism development—but not without raising concerns over feasibility and follow-through.

Information Ministry Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana announced the policy on Monday through a post on X (formerly Twitter), calling it a strategic framework for revitalising the sector.

“The Tourism and Hospitality Industry Policy is a comprehensive framework for sustainable tourism development. It outlines key strategies to enhance visitor experiences, promote investment, improve infrastructure, conserve the environment, and involve local communities in tourism activities,” Mangwana wrote.

While the announcement was met with cautious optimism, tourism and economic analysts say Zimbabwe still faces deep structural barriers that could undermine the policy’s impact. Years of underinvestment in infrastructure, persistent power outages, and limited marketing capacity have hindered the sector’s growth.

“It’s a positive step, but without detailed implementation plans and budget allocations, this could easily become another policy that sits on the shelf,” said a local tourism consultant who preferred anonymity.

Environmentalists have also raised concerns about the sincerity of conservation commitments, citing ongoing challenges like deforestation and mining in protected areas.

With Zimbabwe seeking to boost tourist arrivals and compete with regional destinations, many believe the new policy must be matched by visible reforms, stakeholder collaboration, and tangible support for community-led tourism initiatives.