Zimbabwe: Zimbabwe Tourism Sector Records U.S.$132m Investment Surge in First Half of 2026

What the report says

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has welcomed a sharp rise in investment in Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, saying the sector drew US$132.3 million in the first half of 2026. The remarks were made at the opening of the 19th Sanganai/Hlanganani Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo, which is taking place in Masvingo from September 9 to 12, 2026, according to New Zimbabwe as carried by AllAfrica.

The report says Mnangagwa urged stronger tourism value chains so Zimbabwe can capture more of the economic benefits from the industry. He also said investor confidence remained high and pointed to tourism’s role as the country’s third-largest economic sector, with reported contributions of about 5.7% to GDP and support for roughly 3.5% of national employment. The article says tourism also brings in substantial foreign currency.

The headline investment figure was described as a 229% increase from the same period in 2025. The report also said domestic tourism rose during the period, from five million visitors in the first half of 2025 to 6.4 million this year. In addition, Mnangagwa cited recent international recognition for Zimbabwe as a destination.

The expo is being held in Masvingo Province for the first time as part of the government’s devolution strategy. The report says the event is highlighting investment prospects, adventure tourism and heritage sites such as Great Zimbabwe, while also showcasing upgrades to the Gymkhana Events and Conference Centre.