By Staff Reporter
HARARE– Zimbabwe has secured two major international honours at the Pacific Area Travel Writers Association (PATWA) Awards held on the sidelines of ITB Berlin 2026 in Berlin, reinforcing its growing reputation as a leading global tourism destination.
The country won Destination of the Year – Natural Wonders, while Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi was named, Tourism Minister of the Year – Africa. The recognition follows Zimbabwe’s recent listing by Forbes among must-visit destinations.
Zimbabwe was honoured for its vast natural heritage, conservation efforts and authentic visitor experiences. At the centre of its appeal is Victoria Falls, one of the world’s largest waterfalls, alongside flagship parks such as Hwange National Park, Mana Pools National Park and Gonarezhou National Park.
Other key attractions include Matobo Hills, the Eastern Highlands, Chinhoyi Caves and the ancient city of Great Zimbabwe. Nearly 30 percent of the country’s landmass is protected, offering extensive wilderness and safari experiences supported by rigorous professional guiding standards.
Minister Rwodzi was recognised for driving tourism diversification and innovation. Under her leadership, Zimbabwe hosted the inaugural UN Tourism Regional Forum on Gastronomy Tourism for Africa in Victoria Falls, drawing delegates from 33 countries and positioning the country as a continental leader in gastronomy tourism.
She has also rolled out a 12-cluster tourism model aligned with Vision 2030, expanding focus beyond wildlife to include gastronomy, medical, cultural and adventure tourism. The decentralisation of the Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo to provinces such as Mutare further reflects efforts to spread tourism benefits nationwide.
The awards underscore Zimbabwe’s broader tourism strategy under President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which prioritises infrastructure modernisation, air connectivity, investment promotion and international re-engagement.
The double recognition at ITB Berlin signals Zimbabwe’s strengthening global tourism profile, anchored on natural assets, diversification and sustained international engagement.
