By Nigel Pfunde
HARARE — President Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged tourism and hospitality sector operators to accelerate the adoption of digital technologies and Artificial Intelligence (AI) to spur economic growth, while ensuring that rapid technological changes preserve the human touch and local culture.
Officially opening the 19th edition of the Sanganai/Hlanganani/Dzimbahwe World Tourism Expo in Masvingo on Wednesday, President Mnangagwa said the sector must harness modern solutions to modernize key economic drivers and elevate the nation’s international standing.
“This year’s theme, ‘Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism,’ is timely and forward-looking,” he said.
“It must provoke the sector to reflect on the role of technology in tourism.”
He stressed that tech integration must go beyond basic operational tasks to build intelligent, sustainable travel systems.
“The deployment of Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies has immense potential to redesign tourism beyond policy and governance or operational efficiency, to enable smarter destinations,” Mnangagwa said.
“It can positively impact tourist experiences, while also promoting sustainable, inclusive, and efficient travel.”
Challenging local players to deploy innovative tools to market the nation’s attractions, President Mnangagwa called for bold strategies to boost global brand awareness.
“As we look into a future driven by Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies, I challenge the Zimbabwe tourism industry to embrace innovation, to increase the visibility of Destination Zimbabwe,” he said.
Beyond destination marketing, the President tasked state agencies with leveraging technology to improve safety, convenience and conservation.
“More must be done by the various government divisions to manage visitor flows, forecast demand, reduce overcrowding and support environmental monitoring to make tourism safer and more convenient,” he directed.
However, the Head of State cautioned against letting technological solutions overshadow the warmth, heritage and identity of the country’s people.
“In all tech-driven endeavors, the use of Artificial Intelligence and digital platforms should take into account the human face and our unique Zimbabwean as well as African culture,” President Mnangagwa emphasized. “Digital tools should complement human roles, rather than replace them.”
Expressing satisfaction with the country’s economic direction, he noted that clear government strategies continue to yield strong results across all sectors.
“So far, I am pleased that all sectors of the economy continue to benefit from the current innovation-led development as well as stable and predictable policy frameworks,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Mnangagwa invited international tourists to visit the country, describing Zimbabwe as a God-blessed nation rich in world-class natural wonders, heritage, and hospitality.
