Zimbabwe has witnessed a significant surge in eco-tourism over the past decade, fuelled by global environmental consciousness. The growth has not only bolstered international arrivals to renowned destinations such as Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls but has also played a vital role in conservation efforts and community development.
According to Godknows Homwe, a destination marketing consultant, eco-tourism has brought substantial benefits to Zimbabwe. “Over the past decade, eco-tourism in Zimbabwe has shown substantial growth, driven by global environmental awareness. This growth has led to an increase in international arrivals to destinations like Hwange National Park and Victoria Falls. Eco-tourism has significantly contributed to conservation efforts, with funds allocated from different conservation funders. Local community development has also benefited, with increased employment and income from community-based enterprises,” Homwe said
Chimanimani Tourism Association chairman, Collen Sibanda says conservation efforts brought about by eco-tourism have resulted in the creation of local employment opportunities, particularly through community-based projects sponsored by NGOs across various districts.
“Training of locals with the likes of Shangani people of Gonarenzou whereby local people are employed, trained then given the mandate to man their home area against any form of disturbance to the Environment around them since they are born there, they are taught the role and the importance of all that surround them. In certain communities, eco-tourism, like Chikukwa community, attracted tourists up to an extent that they got a funding for a full functioning preschool that have all necessities that a child might need,” said Sibanda
However, amidst the success stories Sibanda said challenges related to ignorance, cultural values and religion among others persist within the industry.
