Business Reporter
Zimbabwe’s tourism sector has exciting new leadership with the appointment of George Munyaradzi Manyaya as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).
Manyaya’s extensive experience in corporate communications, stakeholder relations, and strategic leadership positions him as the ideal leader to propel Zimbabwe’s tourism into an exciting new era, attracting global travelers to its iconic destinations.
He brings a wealth of expertise from both the public and private sectors, making him well-equipped to navigate the dynamic global tourism landscape and ensure Zimbabwe’s top-tier attractions—such as the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the majestic Great Zimbabwe Monument, and the country’s rich wildlife and cultural heritage—remain on the world map. His background in corporate communications, particularly in managing public perception and engaging with diverse audiences, will be key to showcasing Zimbabwe’s attractions to the world.
Having previously worked as PR Manager for Mbada Diamonds, Manyaya helped elevate the company’s brand and reputation, and now he’s ready to apply that same expertise to elevate Zimbabwe’s global tourism image. The art of storytelling is central to tourism, and Manyaya understands the importance of sharing Zimbabwe’s narrative to captivate international tourists.
Before his appointment, Manyaya worked in critical roles in stakeholder relations at NetOne and ZESA Holdings, two of Zimbabwe’s major telecommunications and energy companies.
In these roles, he was instrumental in fostering strong relationships with government officials, business leaders, and communities. This experience will be invaluable in coordinating efforts across Zimbabwe’s tourism sector, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for travelers.
With his extensive governance experience, including serving on the boards of NetOne and the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA), Manyaya is uniquely qualified to lead the ZTA. His strategic vision will be crucial as Zimbabwe seeks to overcome challenges such as infrastructure limitations, post-pandemic recovery, and stiff competition from other African destinations.
As tourism slowly recovers from the pandemic, Zimbabwe has vast untapped potential to position itself as a premier travel destination.
Under Manyaya’s leadership, the ZTA will look to enhance marketing strategies, improve infrastructure, and develop innovative tourism packages that attract international visitors, ultimately boosting the economy and creating jobs for local communities.
Manyaya’s academic credentials further bolster his capabilities to lead Zimbabwe’s tourism sector. He holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from Binary University (Malaysia) in collaboration with Chinhoyi University of Technology. He also earned a Master’s Degree in International Relations from the University of Zimbabwe and a Master’s in Commerce in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance from Midlands State University.
With a visionary leader at the helm, Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is poised for growth and transformation. Whether you’re an adventurer, a culture enthusiast, or a luxury traveler, Zimbabwe offers a wealth of experiences, and Manyaya’s leadership promises to make it an even more enticing destination for travelers worldwide.
For those seeking unforgettable journeys, Zimbabwe is undoubtedly a place to watch in the years ahead.
