Zimbabwe to Host 2026 UN Women in Tourism Congress
Zimbabwe has secured a major win on the global stage after being chosen to host the Third UN Women in Tourism Regional Congress in 2026. The announcement was made during the 68th UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa meeting held in Nigeria.
In another significant development, Zimbabwe was also elected Vice President of the 26th UN Tourism General Assembly, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this November — a double victory that cements the country’s growing reputation as a serious player in global tourism.
Zimbabwe Recognised for Rising Tourism Profile
Tourism Minister Barbara Rwodzi praised the recognition, saying it reflects Zimbabwe’s emergence as one of Africa’s top destinations. She pointed to last year’s successful hosting of the UN Gastronomy Conference as a key milestone.
Rwodzi stressed that tourism is more than just sightseeing — it’s now about creativity, innovation, and empowering local economies. She said African countries need to shift the global narrative by showcasing their people, culture, and natural beauty.
“Tourism is more than travelling to visit historical sites, waterfalls, mountains, and parks. It is an engine of local economies transformed by technology and creativity. African nations need to redefine their global identity through the vibrance of their people, rich cultural heritage, and natural endowments. Zimbabwe is indeed the new frontier in world tourism, given its huge potential and limitless opportunities for innovation and creativity,” she said.
The summit, attended by ministers and tourism leaders from 51 African nations, focused on how Africa can use technology, education, and cultural heritage to build a more inclusive and innovative tourism industry. This year’s theme — “Boosting Social Impact and Education in Tourism via Innovation, AI, and Creative Industries in Africa” — reflected a strong emphasis on using digital tools to unlock new opportunities.
The Secretary General of UN Tourism, Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili, echoed the same sentiments. He said Africa is poised to become the next big frontier in global tourism, thanks to its rich culture and potential for growth.
Zimbabwe emerged as the top choice in a vote that included other African heavyweights such as Kenya, Seychelles, Zambia, Angola, Morocco, South Africa, Mozambique, and Tunisia. The outcome reflects strong continental confidence in Zimbabwe’s ability to deliver.
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