LONDON — Zimbabwe has urged its citizens in the United Kingdom to move beyond remittances and invest directly in the country's tourism sector, as the country seeks to deepen diaspora participation in national economic transformation.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi made the call at a Diaspora Engagement Forum and Dinner held at Zimbabwe House in London, on the sidelines of the World Travel Market 2026.
The event was also attended by Zimbabwe's Ambassador to the UK, Colonel (Rtd) Christian Katsande, and Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive Dr George Manyaya.
From remittances to direct investment
Minister Rwodzi conveyed President Emmerson Mnangagwa's appreciation for diaspora remittances, which she said have sustained the economy over the years.
She said the President is keen to see these contributions complemented by increased direct economic investment back home.
She described tourism as a low-hanging sector offering significant opportunities for the diaspora to participate directly in the country's economic transformation.
She said the diaspora, as an important constituency in Zimbabwe's economy, must not be left behind in programmes and projects advancing Vision 2030 and the National Development Strategy 2.
Investment opportunities
The Minister drew attention to the 13 tourism clusters and the diverse investment prospects they offer, highlighting opportunities in accommodation and hospitality infrastructure in Victoria Falls, particularly around the Mosi-oa-Tunya development.
She also cited conference facilities in Harare ahead of AfCFTA 2029, as well as cultural, heritage, and rural tourism.
She underscored tourism's capacity to generate employment, empower communities, expand enterprise opportunities, and transform livelihoods, while assuring prospective investors of Government's readiness to facilitate investment.
Ambassador Katsande applauded the diaspora's continued contribution to national development and encouraged stronger engagement with Government and the private sector.
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