Zimbabwe tourism investment surges to $132.3 million in first half of 2026

President Emmerson Mnangagwa opened the 19th Sanganai/Hlanganani Annual Tourism Trade Fair in Masvingo and highlighted a massive spike in foreign investment. Zimbabwe tourism capital reached US$132.3 million in the first half of 2026. This figure represents a 229% increase from the US$40.2 million recorded in the same period last year. The President stated that investor confidence remains strong despite global conditions. He emphasized the need for better value chains to maximize benefits from the industry. Zimbabwe tourism currently accounts for approximately 5.7% of Gross Domestic Product and supports 3.5% of national employment. The sector generates about US$1.2 billion in annual foreign currency receipts. Domestic visitor numbers also climbed, rising from five million in the first half of 2025 to 6.4 million this year. Mnangagwa noted that Creative Cultural Industries contributed 8.8% to GDP. He cited recognition from international platforms but provided no further details on specific awards.