Zimbabwe urges diaspora to invest in tourism projects
Zimbabwe has launched a campaign urging its overseas diaspora to invest in tourism and hospitality projects, a move announced at World Travel Market 2026. The initiative targets Zimbabweans living abroad and aims to channel their financial resources into infrastructure, accommodation, cultural and rural tourism ventures.
In this story
At a glance
- What changes
- Diaspora investment focus shifted from remittances to tourism projects
- Timing
- Announced during World Travel Market 2026 in London
- Who is affected
- Zimbabweans living abroad and potential tourism investors
The details
- Announced by
- Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi
Campaign launch and objectives
The Zimbabwean government presented a new diaspora engagement campaign at the World Travel Market 2026. Minister Barbara Rwodzi highlighted the need to transform traditional remittance flows into long‑term, productive investments that support tourism infrastructure and broader economic growth.
Targeted investment areas
The initiative identifies several priority sectors for diaspora funding. These include accommodation and hospitality facilities in Victoria Falls and the Mosi‑oa‑Tunya area, conference and business‑event infrastructure in Harare linked to the 2029 AfCFTA agenda, cultural heritage attractions, and rural tourism enterprises across the country’s 13 tourism clusters.
- Accommodation development in Victoria Falls
- Conference facilities in Harare
- Cultural heritage and rural tourism projects
Engagement mechanisms and next steps
A Diaspora Engagement Forum and Dinner at Zimbabwe House provided a platform for investors to meet government officials, including President Mnangagwa’s representative, and to learn about specific projects. The government encourages interested diaspora members to explore programmes aligned with Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.
No formal application process was detailed in the announcement; instead, potential investors are invited to contact the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority for further information.
What this means for travellers
Trip planning
- Existing travel bookings to Zimbabwe are unaffected by the investment campaign.
- Tourists may see new accommodation options in Victoria Falls as projects progress.
Cost and documents
- No new visa fees or entry requirements are introduced by this initiative.
- Potential investors should prepare business proposals and financial documentation when contacting authorities.
What you need to do
- Diaspora members should monitor announcements from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority for investment opportunities.
- Interested investors need to reach out to the authority to obtain project details and partnership terms.
Who this affects
-
Zimbabwe diaspora living abroad
The campaign specifically calls on overseas Zimbabweans to channel funds into tourism projects.
What to do Consider investment opportunities presented by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority.
-
Potential diaspora investors
The initiative outlines sectors where financial participation can generate employment and economic value.
What to do Prepare proposals and engage with government contacts for project details.
-
Tourism sector businesses
Increased diaspora investment is expected to expand infrastructure and service capacity.
What to do Stay informed about new funding sources and partnership possibilities.
Frequently asked questions
How can Zimbabwean diaspora invest in tourism projects?
Diaspora members can contact the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority to receive information on available projects and submit investment proposals. The authority will provide details on partnership structures and required documentation.
What sectors are targeted for diaspora investment?
The campaign highlights accommodation in Victoria Falls, conference facilities in Harare, cultural heritage sites, rural tourism enterprises, and other projects within Zimbabwe’s 13 tourism clusters.
Does this initiative change visa requirements for visitors?
No, the announcement focuses on investment and does not alter entry visas, fees, or immigration rules for tourists traveling to Zimbabwe.
When was the diaspora investment campaign announced?
The initiative was announced during the World Travel Market 2026 held in London, as reported on 8 November 2026.
What government bodies are involved in the investment drive?
The campaign is led by Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi, with support from the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and the President’s office.
