Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has praised Zimbabwe as a “magnificent” destination, giving the country’s hospitality a perfect score during a visit to celebrate his 74th birthday.
The British billionaire arrived in Victoria Falls on Saturday ahead of his birthday on 18 October. His eight-day holiday includes golf, wildlife experiences and visits to some of Zimbabwe’s best-known tourism destinations.
Speaking after playing golf at Elephant Hills Golf Course in Victoria Falls, Ratcliffe praised the scenery, weather and friendliness of the people he had encountered.
“In terms of hospitality, so far 10 out of 10,” he said, adding that the coffee was excellent and describing the welcome he had received as exceptional.
“That’s why I love Zimbabwe,” he said.
Ratcliffe, who founded global chemicals company INEOS, said he had chosen Zimbabwe for his birthday because of what the country offers visitors, including its natural attractions and outdoor experiences.
From golf to the wild
The businessman’s itinerary also includes Hwange National Park and Mana Pools National Park, extending his stay beyond Victoria Falls.
Hwange is known for its elephant population and diverse wildlife, while Mana Pools offers a more remote wilderness experience along the Zambezi River.
Ratcliffe also recalled a previous trip to Zimbabwe in which he canoed between 80km and 100km along the Zambezi, describing the adventure as exciting.
His latest visit combines several tourism experiences, with golf providing an opportunity to enjoy Zimbabwe’s landscapes before heading into its national parks.
Ratcliffe said he particularly appreciated the setting at Elephant Hills, where trees and wildlife contribute to the course’s appeal.
He described Zimbabwe as a special place, praising Victoria Falls as one of the world’s natural wonders and highlighting the country’s welcoming people.
A high-profile visitor
Ratcliffe’s visit has drawn attention because of his prominent position in international business and football.
He became a co-owner of Manchester United after INEOS acquired a minority stake in the English Premier League club in 2024. He remains one of Britain’s best-known industrialists, leading the multinational chemicals group.
His comments publicly endorse Zimbabwe’s tourism offering at a time when the country continues to promote its natural attractions and hospitality to international visitors.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi arranged a team to welcome and assist Ratcliffe during his stay. The businessman acknowledged the gesture, thanking the minister for the attention extended to him.
His trip is expected to continue with visits to Hwange and Mana Pools before the end of his eight-day holiday.
