By Takunda Chimwaka

The World Travel Market Expo kicked off this week in London, with Zimbabwe’s tourism vehicle, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) showcasing ‘Brand Zimbabwe’ to the European market.

Speaking to ZTA delegates, Director General of International Air Transport Association, Alexander Juniac acknowledged Zimbabwe’s efforts towards marketing its country and pledged support to see to it that its efforts bear fruits.

“Zimbabwe should invest in hotels and airports and then we will help the Government to promote its destination. Passengers want to be treated well and want to be in control of the travel,” she said.

Exhibiting on ‘#Destination Zimbabwe’ stand included prominent brands like Cresta Hotels and Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG). On the wildlife front were Gonarezhou National Park, Wild Dog Conservation as well as local traditional foods (nzungu, maheu, maputi, mutetenerwa) among a host of other services.

Zimbabwean Ambassador to the UK, Col (Rtd) Christian Katsande, also commended efforts by ZTA in promoting Brand Zimbabwe and enhancing the dictum, ‘Zimbabwe is open for business.’

ZTA delegation included Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality, Munesu Munodawafa, ZTA acting Chief Executive Officer, Givemore Chidzidzi among other delegates.

ZTA also met briefly with CNN commercial team in charge of Africa for a possible partnership in promoting #Visit Zimbabwe.

World Travel Market London is the leading global event for those in the travel industry. They meet to conduct business networks. The WTML 2019 Exhibition kick-started on 04 November and is expected to end on 06 November 2019.