Zimbabwe Appointed VP At UN Tourism General Assembly
Zimbabwe has taken centre stage on the global tourism platform after being appointed as one of the Vice Presidents of the 26th Session of the United Nations Tourism General Assembly, which officially opened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 9 November.
The biennial gathering — one of the most important events on the international tourism calendar — brought together heads of state, ministers, and industry leaders from over 150 member countries to discuss strategies for sustainable tourism growth, innovation, and international cooperation.
Zimbabwe’s new leadership role
Represented by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon Barbara Rwodzi, Zimbabwe’s appointment marks a significant milestone for the country’s tourism sector.
The nation will serve as Vice President of the General Assembly, representing the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa alongside Nigeria.
The appointment positions Zimbabwe as a key voice in shaping global tourism policy, advocating for sustainable practices, and promoting Africa’s tourism development agenda.
“This recognition affirms Zimbabwe’s growing influence and commitment to driving sustainable tourism across the African continent,” said a ministry official.
Saudi Arabia’s growing influence
The 26th Session, hosted in Riyadh under the theme “Tourism for People, Planet and Prosperity,” also saw the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia elected as President of the General Assembly. The move underscores Riyadh’s increasing leadership in international tourism and its ambition to transform the sector as part of its Vision 2030 strategy.
Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Tourism, Ahmed Al Khateeb, highlighted the importance of global collaboration, noting that tourism had become “a pillar of economic diversification and a bridge between cultures.”
A new era for UN Tourism
In another historic development, Ms Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais was elected as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism, becoming the first woman to hold the position since the organisation’s founding.
Her election was unanimously supported by Member States and hailed as a step forward for gender equality and inclusivity in global leadership.
Analysts say her appointment could usher in a transformative era for the organisation, focusing on innovation, sustainability, and equitable opportunities across regions.
A platform for Africa
For Zimbabwe, participation at this level strengthens its role as a champion of African tourism, particularly in advancing regional integration and promoting the continent’s diverse destinations.
The country’s tourism strategy — anchored on sustainability, community empowerment, and cultural preservation — aligns closely with UN Tourism’s global vision.
As the world continues to rebuild from the effects of the pandemic, Zimbabwe’s elevation to Vice Presidency provides a platform to influence global discussions on resilience, investment, and digital transformation in the travel sector.
The 26th United Nations Tourism General Assembly continues this week in Riyadh, with discussions centred on innovation, climate action, and inclusive growth — all aimed at shaping a more sustainable and prosperous future for the global tourism industry.
