Zimbabwe will host the Third UN Women and Tourism Regional Congress during 2026. Officials made the announcement at the 68th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa meeting held across Nigeria. The country also won the Vice President position for the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly taking place at Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during November. These wins show Zimbabwe has become a major player on the world tourism stage. The double victory proves the nation can compete with other African tourism leaders.
Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi said the recognition shows Zimbabwe has risen to become one of Africa's top travel spots. She pointed to last year's successful UN Gastronomy Conference as proof the country can handle major events. Rwodzi explained that tourism goes beyond just visiting places. The industry drives local economies through technology and creative thinking. African nations must change how the world sees them through their people, culture and natural beauty.
The summit brought together tourism ministers and leaders from 51 African countries. They discussed how Africa can use technology, education and cultural heritage to build better tourism. The meeting focused on making tourism more welcoming and creative across the continent. Leaders talked about using digital tools to create new chances for growth. They want to help more people benefit from tourism opportunities.
UN Tourism Secretary General Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili agreed Africa could become the next major tourism destination worldwide. He praised the continent's rich culture and potential for expansion. Zimbabwe beat other strong African countries during the voting process. Kenya, Seychelles, Zambia, Angola, Morocco, South Africa, Mozambique and Tunisia all competed for the hosting rights. African leaders showed they trust Zimbabwe to deliver excellent results.
Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi said the recognition shows Zimbabwe has risen to become one of Africa's top travel spots. She pointed to last year's successful UN Gastronomy Conference as proof the country can handle major events. Rwodzi explained that tourism goes beyond just visiting places. The industry drives local economies through technology and creative thinking. African nations must change how the world sees them through their people, culture and natural beauty.
The summit brought together tourism ministers and leaders from 51 African countries. They discussed how Africa can use technology, education and cultural heritage to build better tourism. The meeting focused on making tourism more welcoming and creative across the continent. Leaders talked about using digital tools to create new chances for growth. They want to help more people benefit from tourism opportunities.
UN Tourism Secretary General Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili agreed Africa could become the next major tourism destination worldwide. He praised the continent's rich culture and potential for expansion. Zimbabwe beat other strong African countries during the voting process. Kenya, Seychelles, Zambia, Angola, Morocco, South Africa, Mozambique and Tunisia all competed for the hosting rights. African leaders showed they trust Zimbabwe to deliver excellent results.
