Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is set for a major digital transformation following a landmark partnership between NetOne and the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA), aimed at enhancing connectivity, modernizing operations, and boosting the country’s global competitiveness.
The collaboration, unveiled at a high-level event attended by senior government officials and industry stakeholders, brings together key players including the Permanent Secretary for the Ministry of ICT, Postal and Courier Services, Dr. B. Chirume, and newly appointed ZTA Chief Executive, George Manyaya. Representing NetOne Group Chief Executive Raphael Mushanawani was General Manager Mr Joseph Machiva.
In his welcome remarks, the NetOne Board Chairperson described the partnership as a bold step toward building “a stronger, more connected, and more competitive Zimbabwe,” underpinned by innovation and collaboration. He emphasized that the agreement goes beyond formalities, representing a shared national vision aligned with the country’s development agenda.
The initiative is anchored in the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2), which prioritizes digital transformation and the strengthening of key economic sectors such as tourism. Through this framework, Zimbabwe aims to modernize service delivery, promote innovation, and foster an inclusive digital economy.
Speaking on behalf of NetOne leadership, Mushanawani highlighted the strategic importance of the partnership in advancing Zimbabwe’s Vision 2030 ambitions, guided by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He noted that while Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is already globally recognized, the integration of digital technologies will further enhance efficiency, accessibility, and growth.
“As NetOne, we are not redefining tourism but strengthening it expanding its reach and deepening its impact through digital innovation,” he said.
Central to the partnership is the digitisation of ZTA’s inspectorate functions, transitioning from manual systems to real-time, technology-driven operations. This will improve regulatory efficiency, data collection, and service delivery across tourism establishments nationwide.
Additionally, NetOne is set to expand network coverage in key tourism corridors and roll out Wi-Fi services in strategic destinations, ensuring seamless connectivity for both local and international visitors. The introduction of e-tourism SIM solutions is also expected to enhance convenience for travellers and promote the use of local digital platforms.
The role of tourism patron Auxillia Mnangagwa was also acknowledged, with stakeholders crediting her efforts in promoting Zimbabwe’s cultural heritage and gastronomy on the global stage.
Manyaya, who recently assumed leadership at ZTA, is expected to steer the organisation into a new era of innovation and growth, leveraging partnerships such as this to strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a premier tourist destination.
The partnership reflects a broader whole-of-government approach, bringing together institutions to drive sustainable development. Stakeholders expressed optimism that the integration of ICT into tourism will not only improve visitor experiences but also empower local communities and stimulate economic growth.
As Zimbabwe continues to position itself on the global tourism map, the NetOne-ZTA alliance signals a forward-looking strategy where technology and tourism converge to unlock the sector’s full potential.
