242 Arnold Way Burnside
Bulawayo, Zimbabwe
info@freetobewildsanctuar y.com
freetobewildsanctuar y.com
Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary is a safe haven for wild animals, located in Bulawayo. It is Zimbabwes’ first wildlife rehabilitation centre and hosts scores of wild animals. The sanctuary only takes in rescued animals and gives them a second chance to return to the wild and just live free.
From Bulawayo we feature another wildlife safe haven in Victoria Falls. The Crocodile Park spotlights one of Victoria Falls’ leading tourist attractions, dating back to the 1970s, and originally operating under the name Spencer’s Creek until 2018.
As you travel across Zimbabwe here are some handy tips from the DMC (Destination Management Company)on how to make travel experiences work, through the provision of planning to the traveling public. The article on travel gear looks at what to pack and wear when going on a safari.
Still on wildlife but now with a competitive edge get to know about the Kariba International Tiger Fishing Tournament (KITFT) which is a 100% catch-and-release tournament.
Another competition-based article is the Victoria Falls World Challenge Pigeon Race which comes to our doorstep end of July and make a date to interact with a large number of internationally acclaimed pigeon fanciers from across the globe who will gather in the resort town.
We move on to cultural tourism which motivates visitors to learn, discover, experience, and consume cultural attractions in our destinations.
With The Three Monkeys, having opened in Harare, we bring what this fine dining restaurant and bar has in store for the Hararians and other travellers passing through the city on regional itineraries.
Our feature on hospitality looks at two hotels, namely The Palm River Hotel and Sterling Hotels Bulawayo. The former was recently awarded 5-star grading by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority and is now officially one of only two hotels to occupy a 5-star status in Victoria Falls. The latter, Sterling Hotels, recently opened doors to the public in Bulawayo, boasting 46 rooms
and located at the corner of Robert Mugabe Way and Masotsha Ndlovu Avenue.
We have made an effort to focus on hospitality in the air.We take a look at various air industry players and their current achivements.
We Are Victoria Falls focuses on unlocking the potential of Victoria Falls through improved air access in boosting tourism to the resort town.
Air Zimbabwe keeps building and shows that continuous thorough aircraft maintenance at the national carrier can contribute to true hospitality in the air.
The ZTA also promoted our fabulous destinations at the recently concluded Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
As our country maintains its drive to lure international visitors, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Emirates to boost inbound tourist arrivals and increase traffic into Zimbabwe utilising the strength of the airline’s global network.
Fastjet Zimbabwe has also launched new routes to Hwange national park and Kariba.
Qatar wins the 2023 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating institution, Skytrax.
Ethiopian Airlines’ collaborates with African Airlines Association (AFRAA) to host the 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention that concluded in Ethiopia.
Continue enjoying our beautiful Zimbabwean holiday destinations with South African Airways, Kenya Airways, RwandAir, Airlink, MackAir, Zambian Airways, Air Tanzania, Mozambique Airlines and more. This is a great sign that our tourism sector is getting back on track.
Read and enjoy!
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CONTRIBUTORS
Shelley Cox
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Joshua Govati
EMAIL newton@destinationzw.biz
newton.musara@structureanddesign.co.zw
www.destinationzw.com
FIND US AT 31 Alexander Rd, Highlands, Harare
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its content, neither editor nor publisher can be held responsible for any omissions or errors: or for any misfortune, injury, or damages which may arise there-from.
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Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary: Giving wild animals a second chance to return to the wild
KITFT is a 100% catch & release tournament
Going on Safari? What should you pack?
Homing In On Usd1.5 Million Blending culture & tourism
Three Monkeys in Harare Fun dining shines through in the food
New Sterling Hotels Brand Opens Doors In Bulawayo
The Palm River Hotel Awarded Official 5-Star Grading
Unlocking the potential of Victoria Falls: The role of improved air access in boosting tourism : We Are Victoria Falls
Zimbabwean hospitality in the skies starting from the ground
Fabulous destinations in Zimbabwe exhibited at the MATTA Fair in Malaysia
Zimbabwe Signs MOU With Emirates To Boost Inbound Tourist Arrivals
Award winning airline Fastjet launches new routes
Text by Martin Chemhere
Tucked on the outer limits of Burnside, one of Bulawayo’s low-density suburbs, Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary is a wildlife rehabilitation success story. It is Zimbabwe’s first wildlife rehabilitation specializing in primates and sits on a 63-acre plot, providing a free-roaming environment and home for scores of wild animals, being rehabilitated and returned into the wild. The centre only takes in rescued wild animals, most of them primates. Under rehabilitation currently are monkeys, baboons, kudu, warthog, duiker, and giraffes. A vulture that came in with one wing, an ostrich, two bush babies add to the ongoing list of animals under rehabilitation. A massive 250 animals have so far been set free in the wild, symbolising the success of the sanctuary. This impressive reputation has seen Baye Pigors, the centre’s founder winning the ‘Unsung Conservation Hero’s Award (2016). In 2013, she was also crowned Miss Earth Zimbabwe Fire, which is a conservation-based beauty pageant. The rehabilitation process is such that all animals under their care and meeting certain criteria will be released after some time.
For instance, young baboons and monkeys usually take between 4 to 5 years to reach the full rehabilitation phase before being released. Before being released, the baboons or monkeys must first be able to mimic the behaviour consistent with a wild troupe. They must be able to show adequate bonding with adult baboons within the sanctuary, especially the young ones. They must also show that they have adapted to the wild, can protect each other, can look after each other, or forage correctly for their survival post-sanctuary period. The fact that the animals are mostly hand raised gives them a strong bond to humans which means they have to undergo extensive re-wildling phases to ensure successful release back into the wild, however some permanent residents that have come from being ex-pets are quite friendly and have never lost this bond with humans. The animals are also tagged to make tracing and tracking them in the wild, easy. The tags are noninvasive rendering the devices easy to bear and friendly to the animals. This preparedness is most critical to avoid the risks of exposing the animals to attacks by predators or humans upon release into the wild.
While the animals are brought on to the sanctuary with different lifethreatening conditions, it is notable that a fair share of them, such as monkeys and baboons, arrive as young ones and are immediately put into rearing alongside adults who cater to their bonding needs. There is also a quarantine centre, which is located as one enters the sanctuary from the main gate. The quarantine centre is soon expanding to host the influx of animals.
What makes the sanctuary ideal for wild animals is its capacity for providing free-roaming space that is typical of life out in the wild. The free-roaming aspect also allows visitors to the sanctuary to enjoy watching the animals in a natural setting resembling a national park environment. Due to the relaxed and safe environment the animals have in the free roaming facility they are not afraid of humans, allowing for closeup observations and experiences at the animals on will, whilst visitors are in their territory.
The amazing scope of work being undertaken at Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary belies its location, on the periphery of a major and developing city, giving it the necessary accessibility and convenience. Visitors would be forgiven for imagining they are in a far-off place, in some wildlife park out in the countryside. The landscape is savanna, distinguished by some hilly outcrops, with some wetland grass areas in some sections of the sanctuary. This natural beauty calls for this place to be experienced by more lovers of nature and wildlife!
Most of the animals are released into the Matobo National Park, in southwest Zimbabwe. The park has a significant population of species like black eagles and both black and white rhinos. Also known as Matopos, the park was chosen for its long-standing and successful reputation in rhino conservation.
Says Pigors, “Free 2 Be Wild chooses sites around Zimbabwe that have a good track record in wildlife conservation, and has a sound tracking record of the animals. We also look at other factors like easy accessibility of the release site by foot.”
The project also works with rural communities as a way of giving back or empowering the marginalized. One of these communities is from Kezi, Matobo District, about 100 kilometres (62 miles) out of Bulawayo. The members of the community supply wild pods or seeds that are fed to wild animals like impala, giraffes, and kudu.
Communities within the immediate Burnside area benefit from employment opportunities.
Supporting the surrounding communities with income opportunities is a key part of successful and long-term wildlife conservation, as they benefit and see the value derived from protecting the animals. The aim is to make communities see the value in these wild animals. The sanctuary also run an educational programme for school children, teaching them about conservation as well as co-existence with wild animals. The programme accommodates over 2000 children from around the country every term.
All the above wildlife conservation standards make Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary one of the best wildlife rehabilitation stories in Zimbabwe and Africa. The tremendous achievements so far show the amount of work that has gone into the project from day one, when the project was humbly born from a small and almost random case of Pigors taking on the care of a baby baboon.
“One of the major problems we have is that we are dealing with lesser-known species rather than the so-called Big Five. People would say there is no point in rescuing wild animals, it’s a waste of time and resources. So, we want to educate communities and make them understand that each of the elements in the ecosystem needs to be balanced,” said Pigors.
She also revealed that Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary has experienced one minor incident of poaching since it opened. The incident was one of those rare ones when the security was breached resulting in a warthog being killed by poachers one night. The culprits were traced and arrested; however, the unfortunate occurrence has never been experienced again.
The sanctuary is also in need of donations as it relies on whatever comes from well-wishers, who value the noble work done there. Besides the donations, other forms of funding include a nominal entry fee. Because the centre has a policy of taking in controlled numbers of visitors, this results in little funds being realised annually. The reality is that the centre could do better with not only more donations but constant sources of support from businesses and other interested organisations in Zimbabwe or internationally.
Sustainable donations will also allow better planning and make improvements where necessary. It was heartening to hear from Pigors that the centre currently has adequate human resources though that will change with time.
Though the sanctuary takes in abandoned, wounded, or sick young or old wild animals from anywhere in Zimbabwe, Pigors has set on expanding the project, by setting up similar centres or spreading the sanctuary concept across the country, among other expansion ideas.
Free 2 Be Wild Sanctuary is a great place within a city environment to experience the way wild animals are getting a shot at a second life back in the bush. It’s not enough to read about its magic, instead, it’s highly recommended to visit and immerse yourself in never-before-seen interactions with species that you never thought are friendly to human beings.
We are already looking forward to this year’s Kariba International Tiger Fish Tournament that is going to be held from 11 to 13 October. Following the successful introduction, in 2022, Kariba International Tiger Fish Tournament (KITFT) is a 100% catch and release tournament.
With the use of the innovative ‘Keepnet’ app anglers place the fish on
a measuring mat, read the length and release the fish unharmed back into Kariba. The length of the fish is the scoring measure. With the many years of data recorded for this tournament and for the tiger fish species we have come up with a formula that equates a length in centimetres to a number of points. This equation is applied across the board and it is
the same for every angler that uses the app. Catch and release fishing improves native fish populations by allowing more fish to remain and reproduce in the ecosystem. This practice provides an opportunity for increasing numbers of anglers to enjoy fishing and to successfully catch fish. Releasing fish caught while fishing in the Kariba International
Tiger Fish Tournament (KITFT) will help to ensure that enjoyment of this recreational opportunity will last for generations to come.
In catch and release fishing anglers release tiger fish - unharmedback to the water where they are caught. When done correctly, catch and release methods result in high survival rates.
The Crocodile Park is one of Victoria Falls’ leading tourist attractions, dating back to the 1970s, originally operating under the name Spencer’s Creek until 2018.
Positioned 5 kilometres from the Victoria Falls town centre, and within a short distance from the Zambezi National Park, the park is home to a variety of species, and a worthy addition to any tourist itinerary. Within its surroundings are a crocodile farm and a snake pit, and people can see animals including
the Nile Crocodile, which is the second largest reptile in existence after the Saltwater Crocodile.
Since its opening, thousands of tourists, both domestic and international, continue to list the attraction on their itineraries – whether they are on a national or regional tour. The croc park provides sought-after tour activities, belying its humble start as a nature reptile sanctuary for a variety of animals that were not suitable for release back into the wild.
Unique visits can be experienced and allow tourists to come close to the Nile Crocodile, a species originally endemic to the mighty Zambezi River. Visitors can interact with the animals in a safe and controlled environment, making the crocodile farm highly recommended for visitors. This is an experience of a lifetime and too exciting to miss, allowing for close up views and a better understanding of the animals.
One of the most popular attractions at the croc farm is the feeding time of the reptiles, something special and a never-beforeseen experience for most visitors. Visitors can watch large reptiles jump out of the water to wildly snap at the chunks of meat fed by a team of specially trained animal handlers. The handlers can also assist keen visitors to hold a baby crocodile, something that is impossible to do in the wild.
Visitors can have first-hand interactive experiences with more than the crocodiles experience as the park is also home to lions (one of the Big 5) and over 60 different species of snakes collected from over 20 countries.
“The park is for educational tours on the species we have that call us home. We have two female lions who were rescued and the largest snake collection in Zimbabwe with both local species and exotic species. And not to be missed is our selection of crocodiles of all ages. We also have a curio shop fully stocked with beautifully crafted items from our local artisans.
The shop also stocks a variety of leather products made from crocodile skin, such as bags, wallets, purses, and belts,” said Natalia Attwell, Manager.
She said that due to the park’s ability and capacity to offer so much knowledge, it is a great tour for schools and business groups and not only the foreigners. The park can host large groups at a time, unlike some other activity sites in the resort town and surrounding areas.
The park is popular with tourists from both the domestic and international markets, with the former market contributing about 60% of visitors annually. The high numbers of visitors from the domestic market are due to the large groups and schools that visit the park. A single school tour can have up to 100 children.
The management of the park is always looking at innovative ways to improve its service offerings. This saw the introduction of crocodile cage diving, which has seen the close-ups with the reptiles becoming much more exciting and popular.
We are committed to providing our animals with a safe and healthy environment.
“The crocodile cage diving innovation was introduced in 2018 and the idea is inspired by shark diving. Why not have a close-up view of our Nile crocodile in the water in a safe and controlled environment? It is a fun adrenaline activity and loved by every client who has tried it,” said Attwell.
As the Zimbabwean tourism industry looks to regain its former glory, well-established and innovative players like The Crocodile Park are contributing towards that dream. More so as their educational focus enables the market to appreciate the value in establishing sanctuaries in an era when the depletion of African wildlife is increasing due to many factors.
Donning comfortable and casual clothing that you can wash and wear is recommended while on safari. Most lodges and camps provide a same-day laundry service for your clothes, so check with your host regarding this service in advance.
Muted colours are best for game viewing. Game drives are generally conducted in the early morning and the late afternoon, which can be cold, especially in winter. The temperature often warms up during the day, so it is best to dress in layers.
We got these nuggets from andbeyond.com and they will guide you on the most practical items to pack for your safari:
• Clothes in khaki, green, beige and neutral colours
• Long-sleeved shirts that offer protection from the sun and mosquitoes
• T-shirts
• Shorts or a light skirt
• Jeans or safari trousers for evenings and cooler days
• Jackets and sweaters for early morning and late afternoon game drives
• A lightweight waterproof jacket in case of rain
• Swim and beachwear
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, moisturiser and lip balm
• Binoculars and camera equipment
Take note that camouflage-patterned clothing is not permitted in Zimbabwe. This applies to any clothing that can be construed as imitating military-wear.
A large number of internationally acclaimed pigeon fanciers from across the globe will gather in the resort town for the Victoria Falls World Challenge Pigeon Race on 28 July 2023.
Competitors from as far afield as Kuwait, Poland and America as well as from the region represented by Mozambique, South Africa and
Zimbabwe will battle it out in a world class One-Loft-Race with a prize pot of USD1 500 000 spread over 622 prizes.
In the build up to the race several training flights have been conducted with the first live training held on 3 May 2023 flown over 87 kilometres.
Pigeon racing is the sport of releasing specially trained homing pigeons, which then return to their homes over a carefully measured distance. The time it takes the bird to cover the specified distance is measured and the bird’s rate of travel is calculated and compared with all of the other pigeons in the race to determine which animal returned at the fastest speed.
Pigeon racing requires a specific breed of pigeon bred for the sport, the Racing Homer. Competing pigeons are specially trained and conditioned for races that vary in distance from approximately 100 to 1,000 kilometres. This year, Hotspots have increased from five to six races and there will be two races over 500 kilometres in the Yearling Series.
Cultural tourism is a type of tourism activity in which the visitor’s essential motivation is to learn, discover, experience and consume the tangible and intangible cultural attractions or products in a tourism destination. These attractions or products relate to a set of distinctive material, intellectual, spiritual, and emotional features of a society that
encompasses arts and architecture, historical and cultural heritage, culinary heritage, literature, music, creative industries and the living cultures with their lifestyles, value systems, beliefs and traditions. The National Museums and Monuments of Zimbabwe (NMMZ) is the custodian of approximately 137 national monuments.
These monuments depict a variety of cultural and natural phenomena that embody the history of man in Zimbabwe and the interaction with the environment. Several national monuments support the tourism industry and some have been adopted by corporate entities to identify products and services as truly Zimbabwean.
• Victoria Falls
• Great Zimbabwe
• Matobo Hills Area
• Murewa Caves
• Tsindi Ruins
• Khami Ruins
• Domboshava Caves
• Ziwa National Monument
• Mutoko National Monument
• National Heroes Acre
• Chemavara Rock Art Site
• Dhlodhlo Ruins
• Nalatele Ruins
• Mzilikazi’s grave
• Italian Chapel
• Chiremba Balancing Rocks
• Diana’s Vow rock art site
• Old Bulawayo monument
The Three Monkeys restaurant and bar opened in late 2016 in Victoria Falls, and quickly became a top spot for locals and tourists in the tourist town. The fun dining eatery has recently opened
in Harare and has become the capital city’s newest and most exciting restaurant.
Located at Honeydew Centre, 16 Greendale Avenue, the restaurant
has a lively and welcoming atmosphere and is an ideal place to enjoy a meal with family and friends or for celebrating that special occasion.
The menu features a variety of dishes and exemplifies the restaurant’s call out that says “we love what we, our motto fun dining shines through in the food”.
The menu encompasses all tastes and preferences from pastries, to meat dishes and fresh salads as well as vegetarian options.
The Three Monkeys is open seven days a week for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
There is always something new in Bulawayo, sometimes affectionately referred to as “the City of Kings”. This time it is the arrival of Sterling Hotel, boasting 46 rooms and located at the corner of Robert Mugabe Way and Masotsha Ndlovu Avenue. Riding on the tagline “A Unique Experience”, the
hotel’s warm and friendly hospitality is already leaving lasting impressions on discerning guests.
The unveiling of the new facility, part of the Sterling Group of Hotels, has seen Bulawayo and Zimbabwe, welcoming a hospitality group brand aiming to become a leader on the
domestic tourism front. The group of hotels blends the best of all worlds – luxury, comfort, style, service, and affordability – in an environment increasingly demanding the highest standards. The owners have done exceptionally well to site the modern city hotel in the heart of the Bulawayo CBD,
where guests are always guaranteed the ease of accessible accommodation and a privileged experience to fondly take home.
Its proximity to the Joshua Mqabuko Nkomo International Airport further adds to several conveniences that surround it.
“Our new Bulawayo hotel is family-friendly and perfectly positioned for the leisure and business traveller, while offering a wide range of accommodation types and conference settings. Guests will find all this and more packaged for their convenience in the peaceful surroundings of our luxurious gardens,” said bubbly Sekai Mzondo, General Manager of the hotel, who has 26 years of
experience in the hospitality industry and has worked for both African Sun and Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG).
Since Sterling Hotel Bulawayo opened its doors to the public, it continues to draw positive feedback from the market and has had a chance to host regional guests, showing that though it’s a recent establishment, its warm
and friendly service is fast spreading around.
The hotel offers a mix of services including accommodation, conferencing, and outside catering services and its target market is the business traveller and conferencing groups.
The hotel’s presence in Zimbabwe’s second largest city has the potential to
further boost the MICE (Meetings, Conferences, Incentives, and Events) sector at the regional and even southern African level.
The general manager notes that what makes a stay at Sterling Hotel Bulawayo standout is the “unique experience offered”, within a city renowned for its wide streets, enchanting culture, and wildlife havens a short distance away.
The backdrop of this promise is the hotel’s staff complement of 40 welltrained and friendly people. Sterling Group of Hotels has been operating for 5 years, experiencing exponential growth driven by the vision “to provide world-class hotel facilities with high-quality standards.”
Besides the Bulawayo hotel, there are two other Sterling Group of Hotels operations, one in Harare and the other in Mvurwi (situated in the north-eastern part of Zimbabwe in Mashonaland Central Province), making the task of developing the brand stimulating for the domestic market.
“Growing the Sterling Group of Hotels brand has been exciting and the customers are demanding more from us as they require units in every city,” said Mzondo. For Sterling Group of Hotels, a third hotel facility in a short space of time symbolizes quick growth, more capacity, and much
more opportunity to host and accommodate while contributing to the national economy.
The group of hotels promises to provide a sterling performance based on expansion in the region in the next 5 years, and internationally, thereafter.
2nd February 2023Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The Palm River Hotel has been awarded the most prestigious hotel rating of 5 stars. The award was validated by an official grading conducted by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) Quality Assurance Executives.
Following an extensive inspection, the hotel’s efforts to deliver unparalleled luxury and exceptional quality of service have been recognised and rewarded with a coveted 5-star accolade. The official grading positions the Palm River Hotel as one of only two hotels in Victoria Falls
to occupy a 5-star status. “This is an immensely proud moment for the entire team at the Palm River Hotel and it brings us great delight to officially be positioned as one of only two hotels in Victoria Falls with a 5-star grading,” said Group Hospitality Manager, Heather Kay. “Since unveiling
the Palm River Hotel in 2021, our hospitality family has worked with commitment and determination to meet the first-class standards required for this status, and we will continue to deliver the highest quality of exceptional Zimbabwean hospitality.”
Included in the report, ZTA Quality Assurance Executives acknowledged the hotel’s outstanding hospitality delivery as stated: “Service delivery was found to be exceptional. It is evident that the hotel has made great strides in providing a quality product in the market. We would like to commend management for maintaining high quality standards at the Palm River Hotel.”
The ZTA report also compliments the hotel’s luxurious room and suite offerings, noting the contemporary décor, furniture and quality finishes used throughout. The hotel’s innovative architectural design was also highlighted as ‘a brand-new state for the art product’.
Striving towards achieving its 5-star accolade, the Palm River Hotel proudly
unveiled an impressive collection of 73 world-class rooms and luxury suites situated along the banks of the Zambezi River. The accommodation collection includes 60 Twin and King Deluxe Rooms with riverfacing views, private patios and ensuite bathrooms. Two fully-serviced wheelchair-accessible rooms are also available with a lift offering access to higher floors.
The hotel’s most standout accommodation options include its luxurious suite range. Two Deluxe Suites provide a perfect accommodation option for families or couples travelling together. Two Honeymoon Suites, placed closest to the edge of the Zambezi River, offer a haven of relaxation complete with a large private balcony, relaxing daybed and a modish outdoor shower.
Three Executive Suites offer secluded accommodation with spacious lounges and river-facing balconies for ultimate relaxation and privacy. The palatial Presidential Suite includes
a private lounge and a grand terrace with luxury decor from floor to ceiling – perfectly positioned with uninterrupted views of the Zambezi River.
Offering the pinnacle of private residing is the Palm River Villa, comprised of an Executive Suite, Honeymoon Suite and Twin Deluxe Room. The exclusive villa is complete with a private
kitchen, spacious lounge, car park, private swimming pool with an expansive patio and garden.
The Palm River Hotel offers the discerning traveller luxury accommodation within its unique and tranquil setting, along with outstanding food and beverage facilities, including private dining on the edge of the Zambezi River. Its impressive leisure facilities include a 34m outdoor swimming pool, on-site nature walks and a private gymnasium, currently under development. The hotel’s idyllic location, just 5 minutes from the centre of town, allows for easy access to Africa’s Natural World Wonder, Victoria Falls and surrounding wildlife national parks located within the popular tourism region.
Victoria Falls has, over the years, evolved from being solely a Natural World Wonder and adventure hub, to becoming an ultimate destination for immersive wildlife, wellness and cultural experiences, with numerous activities and attractions on offer for visitors. PostCOVID trends are showing longer stay periods within the destination emerging as travellers seek to explore and connect with the natural environment, biodiversity and warm authentic hospitality which this spectacular destination provides.
As Zimbabwe’s foremost iconic leisure destination, Victoria Falls, despite the impact of COVID-19, is quickly gaining traction in its’ status as the hub of access not only to the country, but also to the wider region of the Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area (KAZA TFCA) which incorporates Angola, Botswana, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe. It is one of the largest Transfrontier Conservation Areas in the world. With increased air access connectivity, it is also becoming easier for travellers to incorporate Victoria Falls into their travel plans.
Under the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry (MECTHI) and the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development a Zimbabwe Destination Development Program (ZDDP) supported by IFC began in January 2020 with the aim to improve the competitiveness and resilience of Victoria Falls as a destination and to support long-term sector recovery. The Program support includes technical assistance to national-level policy review and reform, local-level destination planning, strengthening of targeted Small to Medium Enterprises (SMEs) in Victoria Falls, and improvement of Victoria Falls air access and related services.
The ZDDP’s air access component seeks to position Victoria Falls as a competitive air transport gateway to Zimbabwe and the wider region. Air access is a vital component of any successful tourism industry.
It is the gateway for visitors from all over the world to explore new destinations and immerse themselves in different cultures.
Improved Air access also opens new markets and allows destinations to diversify their tourism offering, attracting new types of visitors and boosting the local economy. A well-developed and efficient air transport system can be the difference between a thriving and successful tourism industry, and a stagnant one.
To achieve this goal, the program is working to improve the enabling environment for airlines and private investment, and is also supporting the recovery, maintenance, and development of Victoria Falls’ air capacity through an Air Services Development Committee charged with national route development. This approach is modeled after the successful Cape Town Air Access Program under WESGRO.
The program has already achieved some significant results. Within two years of program intervention, the program recommended a preliminary set of enabling environment reforms and facilitated direct engagement
with 19 airlines for route recovery, new frequencies, and/or new routes for Victoria Falls (VF) and Robert Mugabe International (HRE) airports. Twenty-three route pitches with in-depth data analyses have been presented to these airlines, which expressed concrete interest in flying to Zimbabwe/VF. The program’s key achievement to date is the successful pitching and negotiation of the first long-haul route to VF, from Europe, with Eurowings Discover (Lufthansa), a route whose operations has recently been expanded.
In addition, 11 other new routes and additional frequencies have been secured including strengthened regional connectivity with South Africa, which is one of Victoria Falls’ main tourism markets, and greater air access connectivity to the diverse destinations within Zimbabwe. Initial results of the program were so successful that the Government of Zimbabwe requested for an extension of the support to incorporate Harare International Airport.
Key factors contributing to this success include:
• The establishment of a multi-stakeholder Air Service Development (ASD) Technical Committee to lead ASD efforts, and building of its capacity, to guarantee longerterm technical ASD leadership
• The in-depth assessment of VF’s air transport, tourism and enabling environment factors to identify demandand supply-side gaps and opportunities, and reform priorities
• The analysis of global air transport datasets
and local-level data to assess route demand and develop robust business cases for presentation to airlines
• The elaboration of an Air Service Development Plan based on the analytical work, to ensure a more strategic approach to airline engagement
• The establishment of an inter-ministerial Air Service Development Steering Committee chaired at PS level that oversees implementation of the ASD Plan and provides policy orientations
• Close consultation with the local private sector in ASD planning and engagement with airlines
• Technical handholding for Plan implementation, such as support to ongoing management of the Committee’s airline relationships to maintain air capacity
• Facilitation of negotiations between airlines and destination stakeholders on route terms and incentives, based on the local context and current international best practices. These combined efforts have helped to improve air access and services within the country and particularly Victoria Falls, making it a more competitive and attractive destination for travellers from around the world, and the ongoing success of the program is a
significant step towards the long-term recovery of the tourism sector in Victoria Falls and Zimbabwe as a whole.
We Are Victoria Falls is an independent, publicprivate partnership initiative representing the tourism community of Victoria Falls. The team behind the initiative consists of Shelley Cox and Kuda Hove. Shelley is a born and bred Zimbabwean, who is deeply passionate about Zimbabwe and Africa as a whole; its wildlife, diversity and wild landscapes, and its incredible people. Kuda is a consultant driving collaboration with the public and private sector to positively contribute to enhancing the destination.
All aircraft are different and require maintenance checks at different times. A rigorous maintenance program ensures that passengers arrive at their destinations safely on an aircraft that is airworthy.
The maintenance philosophy at Air Zimbabwe is to have Safety as a Primary element. This is championed through understanding of Safety, Quality, Technology and Security (Safety Before Schedule).
Air Zimbabwe’s extensive technical facilities coupled with a highly experienced and skilled workforce enables the airline to perform a wide range of aircraft maintenance engineering activities.
The Aircraft Maintenance Division has capabilities in Line and Base aircraft maintenance, repair and overhaul
of engines, engine components as well as repair and overhaul of aircraft mechanical and avionics components. It also has capability to disassemble, inspect, assembly and test cell run B737-200 engines to check for mechanical reliability and overall performance.
The Division is well equipped and committed to the highest quality of workmanship in line with international standards.
Zimbabwean hospitality in the skies begins on the ground, where the airline’s technicians carry out maintenance checks on the carrier’s fleet comprising B767, B737 and ERJ145. Check A, B, C and D are carried out at different flight hours or calendar times. A wide variety of workshops compliment the provision of safe and
airworthy aircraft and components.
Air Zimbabwe has a fully-fledged maintenance department that is comprised of the following key areas. The Engineering Maintenance Control has a variety of functions. These include the planning of aircraft inspections and maintenance work, routing of aircraft and the stewardship of technical records for the entire fleet.
The Technical Resource Centre section maintains the airworthiness of the aircraft through timeous analysis of incoming Airworthiness Directives and Service Bulletins and acquisition of up to date aircraft manuals. Tracking of basic empty weight, centre of gravity and moment changes of the aircraft is another
major responsibility of the Section.
Aircraft Structural Repair designs and local modification designs are some special functions of the section. Aircraft drawings, flight data download and analysis are also carried out in this section. Technical communication with aircraft manufacturers, Original Equipment Manufacturers and Civil Aviation Authorities is their day to day function. Last but not least, the Section ensures compliance with all airworthiness and regulatory requirements or laws.
Aircraft Maintenance takes place in the Hangar. Major and Minor repairs are carried out in accordance with the manufacturer’s standards.Inventory and Logistics section carries out materials planning, goods
inwards inspections and has vast storage facilities for aircraft spares including tyres, rubber and hose.
Another aspect of the maintenance department is overhaul. There are many different workshops like Metrology, Instruments, Radios, Electrics Hydraulics, Power Plants, Sheet Metal, Composite Materials, NDT, Painting, Welding Aircraft interiors and Safety Equipment.
Generally, aircraft maintenance programmes focus on preventive maintenance to avoid flight delays, cancellations, air turn backs and aircraft down times while accelerating turnaround times. A comprehensive Maintenance Program comprises of calendar times and aircraft utilisation as shown below.
Also referred to as pre and post-flight maintenance service checks.
Check A
Check A is carried out on the ERJ145 every 500 flight hours. On B737 Check A is carried out every 250 flight hours or 60 calendar days or whichever comes first.
On the B767 Check A is carried out every 500 flight hours or 90 calendar days or whichever comes first.
Check B
Check B is carried out every 750 flight hours on the B737.
Check C
Check C is carried out on the ERJ145 every 5000 flight hours or 30 months or whichever comes first.
On B737 Check C is carried out every 3000 flight hours or 18 months or whichever comes first.
On the B767 Check C is carried out every 6000 flight hours or 18 months or whichever comes first.
Check D
Check D is carried out every 20000 flight hours on the B737.
Air Zimbabwe runs a Technical Training School (TTS), which is an integral part of the engineering Department. Engineer Type Training Courses, Pilot Ground School and Apprenticeship Courses are run at the school. Other courses on offer at the school include Human Factors in Aviation Accidents and Dangerous Goods. The school has also trained personnel for other domestic and regional operators.
Air Zimbabwe undertakes third party maintenance work for other airlines and offers commercial engineering services to non-aviation customers in Metrology, NDT, Welding and Accumulator refilling with Nitrogen.
The airline’s maintenance facility is approved by Civil Aviation Authority of Zimbabwe to operate as an Approved Maintenance Organisation (AMO) and also by the Ethiopian Civil Aviation Authority to provide AMO services for the B737-200.
Zimbabwe’s unrivalled tourism options made a huge impression when they were showcased for the first time at the recently concluded Malaysian Association of Tour and Travel Agents (MATTA) Fair in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Destination Zimbabwe is a Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
(ZTA) initiative designed to promote local tourism in Malaysia and the Southeast Asian region.
The Asian region event went live for three days (17 to 19 March), attracting over 460 exhibitors and proved to be the leading ‘Consumers Travel Fair’ in Malaysia.
In attendance at the fair were an estimated 100,000 visitors from Malaysia, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region, and the rest of the world.
“This year MATTA Fair was bigger and better than the previous years. The fair has
shifted to a new location covering 37,000 sqm, setting a new record as the largest international travel fair in the region featuring over 500 travel and hospitality businesses from all over the world,” according to a post on the ZTA Facebook page.
In a media statement ZTA’s Executive Director for International Marketing, Mr Jeffreys Manjengwa, says Zimbabwe is targeting emerging markets such as Malaysia, Singapore and various South East Asian countries.
“It was such a great show for us as the ZTA. We’re looking at harnessing traffic flow of tourists from this part of the world into the destination. This is in an effort to meet the country’s
tourist arrivals targets. Zimbabwe and Uganda were the only two African countries that participated,” said Manjengwa.
“Zimbabwe’s participation raised a lot of enthusiasm for the Malaysian market. The market became aware of the existence of Africa as a continent and Zimbabwe as a major destination in Southern Africa. Interestingly, the indication is that around 90% of the traffic who came
to the show were not wellaware of the destination or physical location of Zimbabwe, however interestingly the market is aware of our major icon, Victoria Falls,” he said.
“The greatest takeaway from this engagement is that awareness of destination Zimbabwe raised a lot of interest such that operators have already begun including Zimbabwe in their packages,” he added.
Thirty agencies expressed interest in collaborating with the ZTA to come on a destination familiarisation tour later this year during Sanganai-Hlanganani World Tourism Expo.
The trip to Malaysia augurs well for Zimbabwe, as the country is currently vigorously pursuing an ambitious US$5 billion tourism economy by the year 2025.
Text by Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) had a fruitful outing at this year’s Arabian Travel Market, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with aviation giant Emirates to boost inbound tourist arrivals and increase traffic into Zimbabwe utilizing the strength of the airline’s global network. The showcase ran from 1 to 4 May in Dubai and is the industry’s leading travel and tourism exhibition unlocking business potential in the Middle East.
The MoU was signed by Badr Abbas, Senior Vice President Commercial
Operations for Africa, and Winnie Munchanyuka, Chief Executive, ZTA. Also present at the signing were Lovemore Mazemo, Ambassador of Zimbabwe to the UAE, Farai Chimba, President of the Hotel Association of Zimbabwe, and General Manager, Victoria Falls Hotel.
Under the agreement, Emirates, along with the ZTA, will set in motion a range of joint marketing efforts that include tourism promotions, organizing familiarization trips for trade and media, among other activities. Both parties will explore opportunities for
joint advertising campaigns in key markets. Abbas said “The MoU reflects Emirates’ confidence in the potential and attractiveness of Zimbabwe as an emerging destination that awaits exploration.
“Home to one of the natural 7 Wonders of the World, breath-taking landscapes and glorious historical sites, Emirates says it looks forward to supporting the ZTA in attracting more tourists to the country and showcasing its uniqueness and the vast array of distinctive experiences”.
“We aim to play a considerable role in raising the profile of Zimbabwe through our strong global network,” he said. “Collaboration is the key to success in tourism and only by close collaboration can that path be assured of success,” shared Muchanyuka.
“Zimbabwe is confident that once we implement the agreement, it will create a platform for a progressive increase of arrivals into the country. ZTA and Emirates will broaden engagement and awareness with smart initiatives”, she said.
Endowed with both natural and manmade attractions such as the Majestic Victoria Falls, Matopo Hills, Lake Kariba, wildlife at Hwange, Great Zimbabwe Monuments, and Gonarezhou National Park, Zimbabwe is a sought-after destination offering leisure activities for tourists.
Emirates started operations to Zimbabwe in September 2012 with five weekly flights. It has steadily grown the route in line with increasing customer demand and operates a daily service to Harare with seven flights a week.
Since the start of its operations, Emirates has driven inbound traffic to Zimbabwe from the Middle East, points in Europe, Australia, and the USA.
Emirates airline’s codeshare partnerships with Airlink and South African Airways further provide more choice and connectivity for passengers and drive inbound visitors to domestic points in Zimbabwe like Bulawayo and Victoria Falls.
-text by Michael Nott
Fastjet Zimbabwe, sometimes written as fastjet Zimbabwe with a small letter ‘f’, recently introduced two exciting new routes within Zimbabwe. In Zimbabwe they already provide flights to and from Harare, Victoria Falls and Bulawayo. In April this year they introduced two additional domestic destinations – Hwange National Park and Kariba. The addition of these two new destinations now connects Victoria Falls to six leading tourism and business destinations across three countries in Southern Africa. Fastjet connects the three major cities in Zimbabwe by flying between Harare and Victoria Falls and Harare and Bulawayo. Internationally the airline offers flights from Harare, Bulawayo and Victoria Falls to Johannesburg in South Africa, and from Victoria Falls to Kruger Nelspruit Mpumalanga in South Africa and Maun in Botswana.
One piece of cabin baggage weighing a maximum of 7kg plus a handbag or small personal item. A complimentary light snack and beverage
Availability of FlexiGo change options, providing flexibility and choice if you miss your flight.
Value Flex fares are the traveller’s choice, offering competitive pricing with penalty free changes. This offering is fastjet’s premium option. Book your flight well in advance to take advantage of this fantastic offer. If you book a Value Flex fare, you have the added benefit of two penalty free changes without incurring a change fee. The fare differences are still payable to fastjet. Please note that if your new flight booking costs less than the original reservation, fastjet will not refund the difference. A Value Flex fare booking can be upgraded to a Value Plus booking.
Value Flex Fares include the following: One piece of Checked Baggage weighing up to 23 kg. One piece of cabin baggage weighing a maximum of 7kg plus a handbag or small personal item. Two free changes, subject to Terms and Conditions. Fares Differences apply. A complimentary light snack and beverage.
In line with their image as a modern and sophisticated airline fastjet has also recently updated their staff uniforms for pilots, cabin crew and ground staff from April this year. The new uniforms are elegant and fashionable and ensure that fastjet’s staff are instantly identifiable in their signature grey and yellow colours. Fastjet spokesperson Nunurai Ndawana said, “A uniform is a key element of any brand identity and often creates the first impression. We welcome this uniform that embodies elegance and functionality while maintaining the stylish signature touch that Fastjet uniforms are known for.”
Fastjet’s current fleet is made up of five Embraer ERJ145 aircraft, seating up to 50 passengers each.
Bookings can be made online at www.fastjet.com or at their ticket office in Harare at 9 Phillips Avenue in Belgravia.
Zimbabwe
+263 (0)86 77 00 60 60 / +263 (0)86 77 00 60 61 0027 10 448 0888
customer.zimbabwe@fastjet.com
South Africa
Since fastjet Zimbabwe was launched in 2012 they have rapidly become recognised as the leading value airline in the region. Its awards include Leading African Low-Cost Carrier World Travel Awards 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 2020 and 2021, and Skytrax World Airline Awards Best Low-Cost Airline in Africa 2017 and 2019, and in the top ten finalists for 2021.
For travellers’ convenience fastjet offers a number of options.
Value Fares are a great option. If you book a Value Fare you can change your flight although a change fee will apply. The fare differences are still payable to fastjet. Please note that if your new flight booking costs less than the original reservation, fastjet will not refund the difference. A Value Fare booking can be upgraded to a Value Flex or a Value Plus booking.
Value Fares include the following: One piece of Checked Baggage weighing up to 23 kg.
Availability of FlexiGo change options, providing flexibility and choice if you miss your flight.
Value Plus fares are an ideal option if you require the most flexibility and great benefits with your travels. If you have not locked down your travel plans or your itinerary is subject to change, or if you enjoy some added extras, this fare is ideal for you. If you book a Value Plus fare, you will benefit from unlimited free changes to your flight without incurring a change fee. However, fare differences are still payable to fastjet.
Value Plus Fares include the following: Two pieces of Checked Baggage weighing a total combined maximum 32kg.
One piece of cabin baggage weighing a maximum of 7kg plus a handbag or small personal item. Unlimited free changes, subject to Terms and Conditions.
A complimentary light snack and beverage. Availability of FlexiGo change options, providing flexibility and choice if you miss your flight. Free seat selection prior to check-in. Free airport lounge access. Dedicated Check-in.
+27 (0)10 448 0888 0027 10 448 0888 customer@fastjet.com
Botswana 0027 10 448 0888 customer.zimbabwe@fastjet.com
Last year Qatar Airways bagged its seventh ‘Airline of the Year’ accolade at the 2022 World Airline Awards managed by the international air transport rating institution, Skytrax. On the back of such a track record, here at Destination Magazine Zimbabwe, we are wondering if they are going to make it a record of eight gongs this year.
In April, Skytrax announced that the 2023 awards will take place in the Musée de l’Air et de l’Espace (Air and Space Museum) at the Paris Air Show on 20 June.
At the Internationale Tourismusborse Berlin (ITB Berlin) 2023 held between 8 and 12 March at the Berlin Expo Center City, Qatar Airways revealed seven new destinations, 11 resumptions and 35
frequency increases. In effect we are looking at the addition of over 655 weekly flights to the summer 2023 schedule compared to 2022.
ITB Berlin is the world’s biggest travel and tourism trade show bringing together a range of exhibitors from over 180 countries, five continents and providing over 160 000 visitors with information on new products, services and facilities in the tourism industry.
At this year’s ITB Berlin expo, Qatar Airways celebrated its new Formula 1® partnership, and the airline’s virtual experiences, ‘QVerse’.
At
a media briefing on the first day of ITB Berlin, Qatar Airways group chief executive, His Excellency Akbar Al Baker highlighted that Qatar Airways is dedicated to enriching the global community.
“As the World’s Best Airline, we are excited to offer more ways of bringing the world together, increasing connectivity and bridging gaps within the travel industry,” he said.
1. Qatar Airways
2. Singapore Airlines
3. Emirates
4. ANA All Nippon Airways
5. Qantas Airways
6. Japan Airlines
7. Turkish Airlines
8. Air France
9. Korean Air
10. Swiss Int’l Air Lines
11. British Airways
12. Etihad Airways
13. China Southern
14. Hainan Airlines
15. Lufthansa
16. Cathay Pacific
17. KLM
18. EVA Air
19. Virgin Atlantic
20. Vistara
• The World’s Best Cabin Staff
• The World’s Best Airline Cabin Cleanliness
• The World’s Best Independent Airport Lounges
• The World’s Best Leisure Airlines
• The World’s Best Long Haul Low-Cost Airlines
• The World Best First Class Airline
• The World’s Best Business Class Airline
• The World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline
• The World’s Best Economy Class Airline
Qatar Airways operates direct flights to Harare from Doha, Qatar. The airline recommends making bookings well in advance “as booking early means you are likely to secure the flight you want with your preferred departure and arrival times.” Reclining seats that have extra legroom,
Last year, after two editions of virtual ceremonies due to the COVID-19 restrictions, the 2022 World Airline Awards event was held physically at the Langham Hotel in London, United Kingdom. The award ceremony is widely regarded as ‘the Oscars of the aviation industry.’
Speaking after the award presentation, Qatar Airways’ group CEO noted that the airline’s goal since inception was to take pole position in the aviation industry across the globe.
“To be named as the World’s Best Airline was always a
choosing your favourite dishes from a menu of delicious cuisine made from the finest ingredients and a host of inflight entertainment options make the passenger experience memorable.
The airline has previously indicated its keenness to strengthen trade and tourism links between Zimbabwe and Zambia, and destinations on the Qatar Airways network and “steadily grow these routes to support the recovery of tourism and trade in the region.”
The carrier currently flies to more than 150 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, voted by Skytrax as the ‘World’s Best Airport’ 2022.
goal when Qatar Airways was created, but to win it for the seventh time and pick up three additional awards is a testament to all the hard work of our incredible employees. Their continued dedication and drive is to ensure our passengers have the best experience possible when they fly with Qatar Airways. To win these awards in the same year that we celebrate our 25th anniversary is even more rewarding and I want to offer a sincere thanks to all our passengers who voted for us. Your support drives us to greater achievements every day, we value your loyalty and aim to create memories of a lifetime when you fly with Qatar Airways,” he said.
Qatar Airways was the largest airline that flew consistently throughout the COVID-19
pandemic, with their network never falling below 30 destinations. The airline was also awarded ‘World’s Best Business Class, World’s Best Business Class Airline Lounge and World’s Best Business Class Airline Seat, Best Business Class Onboard Catering as well as Best Airline in the Middle East.
Launched in 1999, the World Airline Awards remain independent and impartial. Airlines do not pay to be included and there are no costs involved to attend the awards event or subsequent marketing rights.
Travellers across the world vote in the airline passenger satisfaction survey to decide the award winners. The survey is provided in various languages and survey entries are screened to identify IP and user information, with all duplicate, suspect or ineligible entries deleted. More than 350 airlines are featured in the final Award results.
Text by Perry Kaande
The 11th Aviation Stakeholders Convention on African Aviation Associations (AFRAA) scheduled to take place from 7 to 9 May at the Skylight Hotel in Addis Ababa Ethiopia this year is likely to set the tone for championing Africa’s airline industry. The Convention, which is being hosted by Ethiopian Airlines and AFRAA with the support of the Government of Ethiopia, will be held under the theme: ‘Changing the African Aviation Narrative’.
In a press statement released by the airline in April 2023, Ethiopian Airlines group chief executive officer Mesfin Bekele noted that the Convention is an apt platform for discussions relating to changing the narrative regarding the continent’s aviation industry.
“We are delighted to host the 11th Aviation Stakeholders’ Convention of AFRAA which will serve as a forum for stakeholders in the industry to put their heads together and discuss the opportunities and pressing issues in Africa’s
aviation sector. The forum will showcase the ‘Africa Rising’ mantra manifested in the growing opportunities for all stakeholders in the continent’s aviation industry,” he remarked.
As a market, Africa’s share over several decades has remained stagnant at less than 3 percent of the world market hence it is envisaged that it is time to take action to change this narrative. The continent accounts for 16 percent of the world population and its low share of global trade of 2 percent offers
the continent a great opportunity to develop air transport.
Secretary General of the AFRAA, Abdérahmane Berthé concurred, emphasising that dialogue among stakeholders is critical.
“AFRAA and Ethiopian Airlines are excited to stage this Convention for the travel ecosystem stakeholders to meet, deliberate on strategies to enhance efficiencies, create synergies, develop intraAfrica connectivity and ensure business continuity
that will redefine the narrative of Africa air transport industry” he pointed out.
The event will gather over 400 delegates from Africa and across the globe that include several African airline CEOs and aviation industry thought leaders. It is considered to be one of Africa’s leading forums for air transport industry stakeholders to dialogue, exchange knowledge and experiences for the development of the travel ecosystem. It is an opportunity for delegates to network and discuss developments in the industry and forge business partnerships.
Data gleaned from a World Bank report in 2020 shows that airlines on the Sub Saharan Continent carried close to 25 million passengers from a peak of about 66 million previously.
AFRAA stated in its Air Transport Report 2020 that among the 54 countries in the African continent, 13 have direct flights to more than 20 African countries. Ethiopia and Kenya lead with 30 direct flights and more to other countries within Africa. However, the intra-African connectivity remains poor and African airlines should take the opportunity to develop their IntraAfrican Network especially when travel to destinations further afield is limited.
The organisers also revealed that the programme covers various activities such as the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) event aimed at empowering the next generation of aviators at the Ethiopian University and exhibitions showcasing aviation-related products and solutions.
AFRAA is the trade association of airlines from the member states of the African Union (AU)
comprising a membership of 48 airlines. Its mission is to promote, serve African Airlines and champion Africa’s aviation industry. The Association envisions a sustainable, interconnected and affordable Air Transport industry in Africa where African Airlines become key players and drivers to African economic development. The Association members represent over 85% of total international traffic carried by African airlines.
Ethiopian Airlines (Ethiopian) once known as Ethiopian Air Lines (EAL) is the flag carrier of Ethiopia and the fastest growing Airline in Africa. In addition to its main hub Bole in Addis Ababa it is pursuing a multi-hub strategy through its presence in Lomé, Togo with ASKY, in Lilongwe with Malawi Airlines and in Lusaka with Zambia Airways. Ethiopian operates the youngest and most modern fleet to more than 150 domestic and international passenger and
cargo destinations across five continents. The fleet consists of ultra-modern and environmentally friendly aircraft with an average fleet age of seven years. The airline has scooped several industry awards such as Skytrax’s ‘Best Airline in Africa Award for five consecutive years. The airline has been a Star Alliance member since 2011 and is an affiliate of the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
Zimbabwe’s aviation sector continues to make headway in improving its standards and image, with a team from the International Aviation Organisation (ICAO) recently in the country to assess airports around the country, in particular the three flagship airports RGMIA, VFIA, and the JMNIA.
The team was in the country for a week and led a workshop attended by stakeholders within the local air transport industry. The focus was to look at whether levels of compliance at our airports were in line with those of the first world concerning operational standards and health awareness.
With the mandate to strengthen global aviation, especially planning, and development, ICAO’s mandate has since the organisation’s formation decades ago, seen the global aviation sector rise in influence and capacity. The aviation industry organisation also wants member countries, especially around Africa, to prioritise compliance with international standards.
The ICAO team engaged members of the aviation sector on ways to strengthen the sector’s capacity and the importance of complying with global standards.
Zimbabwean youths have sustainable ideas that can transform our tourism! They have demonstrated this since the commencement of the Tourism Innovation Challenge three years ago.
The competition is now calling for entries for the 2023 Tourism Innovation Challenge which opened on 15 March and will close on 15 May, thereby raising hopes among the target audience of ages 30 and below.
Harnessing Innovation for Sustainability is the theme of the third installment of the youth-focused and entrepreneurial competition. Since its launch in 2021, the competition has proved its worth as scores walked away with funding that has gone on to help in establishing winning projects. While the ICT-connected projects showcase the potential for commercial activity growth for Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, they also can help to create jobs.
The competition empowers young people and is expected to assist the country’s post-Covid
recovery endeavours, as it seeks to bounce back from the low numbers of visitors experienced in the last three years.
As a high number of youths demonstrate a strong appetite for innovation, Zimbabwe continues to experience new projects by young people and the tourism industry has not been left out. The youths have therefore been recognised as a segment of society that will eventually take Zimbabwe to the next level of tech-driven industrial growth and economic development.
Four prizes are given at the national level, while one is for the provincial level, allowing as many youths to participate.
Upload a project proposal of not more than 1000 words with the focus on sustainable tourism on www.zimbabwetourism. net/innovation.
Submissions are open from 15 March to 15 May 2023 for youth participants aged 30 and below.
1. Pre-Evaluation of Project Proposals. Project proposals relating to sustainable tourism are selected
2. Provincial Adjudication Process , Provincial Price USD $1000 , Selected projects in phase 1 will then be adjudicated online or physically by a panel of adjudicators drawn from the province, provincial winners are announced and proceed to the national finals.
3. National Adjudication Process, All the provincial winners will pitch their projects before a panel of national judges. National winners will then be selected.
Winners from the National Adjudication process will then be announced and awarded their prices.
1. 1ST US$5000, 2ND US$2,500, 3RD US$1,500
2. Incubation and mentorship programs for six months.
3. Other consolidated prizes
So many times when we are planning to go on holiday or a business trip, we get so consumed with the worry of the probable itinerary, travel and accommodation logistics as well as the activities that will occupy us at our intended destination.
It all becomes a lot easier when you leave the planning in the hands a ‘Destination Management Company’ (DMC) that has in-depth knowledge of that
They are conversant with about local experiences and give international partners critical insight in creating exciting products.
DMCs provide a wide range of travel experiences. These may cover travel that requires particular skills or equipment such as safaris, boat cruises or any other holiday destination activity. A DMC makes planning smoother by arranging airport transfers, accommodation
particular destination right from what it takes to get there and do while you are there.
A destination management company is an enterprise that manages a range of products and services at a particular travel destination. Generally, DMCs are mostly small local organisations that have been on the ground at a destination for a long period of time.
reservations and car rental as well as the food experiences... These include things like airport pickups and transfers, accommodation bookings, vehicle rental, catering or event management.
Localised knowledge is critical. DMCs having been in a particular area for many years are knowledgeable about minute details such as the weather patterns, vantage points for game viewing
and related activities. That allows you to create better travel experiences that are more likely to do well in a competitive market.
Many DMCs operate a variety of different services or have partners that do so. That means that they can act as a one-stop shop when you’re creating a travel package. Getting the right DMC will ensure that you bool everything you need for your excursion without breaking a sweat.
For enterprises that are looking at bringing something new into the market, DMCs offer insightful perspectives on the most successful travel experiences in the region. They will help to put all the pieces together and point out any logistical gaps. When client needs change the companies are at hand to assist providing services as and when they are required.
