ZTA signs collaboration MoU with Eswatini counterpart
THE Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) yesterday signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Eswatini Tourism Authority at the ongoing Africa Travel Indaba in Durban, South Africa.
The country is participating at the expo as part of its drive to strengthen tourism destination promotion in the African continent while luring investments into the sector.
Yesterday’s MoU is intended to establish a legal framework for the advancement of institutional and business cooperation between the two parties, said ZTA in a media update after the signing ceremony.
It said the two tourism authorities will facilitate joint marketing of tourism products and the creation of promotional campaigns to boost domestic, regional, and international tourism, amongst other initiatives.
Environment Climate Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Nqobizitha Mangaliso Ndlovu, and his Eswatini counterpart were present at the signing ceremony together with the Eswatini Tourism permanent secretary, Khangeziwe Mabuza.
“We’ve just got another ally in the marketing of tourism in the Southern African region. Most of our key source markets are long-haul markets, and as they come to this part of the world, we would like them to visit a couple of countries before they head back,” ZTA chief executive, Ms Winnie Muchanyuka, said.
“Adding Eswatini to the network is a welcome development. The Royal Kingdom of Eswatini’s airline started flying into Zimbabwe, and this makes the connectivity between the two countries, which allows for a smoother movement between the two countries.
“Above those, the two authorities will benefit from benchmarking activities.”
Eswatini Tourism chief executive officer, Linda Nxumalo, said she was delighted and elated to sign this MOU with the ZTA.
“We’re excited to be entering into this partnership with the ZTA. This comes after His Majesty King Mswati visited Zimbabwe, and while there, he emphasised that we must partner and collaborate on issues of tourism,” she said.
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“The MoU will focus on the collaboration on issues of destination promotion and marketing. Tour operator product educational programmes, staff exchange programmes, and cultural and cullinary exchange programmes.”
Zimbabwe’s Ambassador to South Africa, Mr David Hamadziripi, expressed excitement at the new business partnership, particularly coming hot on the heels of Eswatini Air’s return to Zimbabwe. -chronicle
