Unesco World Heritage Committee endorses Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration

 THE Unesco World Heritage Committee has officially adopted the draft decision on the progress report on the World Heritage Convention and Sustainable Development, acknowledging the Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration on World Heritage and Sustainable Development in Africa.

The milestone was reached on Saturday last week during the committee's meeting in Paris, France.

The declaration emphasises that Africa's cultural and natural heritage should catalyse sustainable development, peace-building and the promotion of human dignity.

It calls for integrating heritage into national development plans and highlights the importance of empowering communities as custodians and co-managers of heritage.

Zambia's nature expert on the World Heritage Committee, Kagosi Mwamulowe, presented amendments to the draft decision, which were supported by Kenya, Rwanda, Senegal and Zimbabwe.

“The declaration will serve as a foundation for fostering sustainable development projects that will transform the livelihoods of local communities in and around world heritage sites in Africa, while showcasing Victoria Falls as a sustainable tourism model,” Mwamulowe said.

He said the declaration aimed to promote Africa's cultural and natural heritage as a catalyst for sustainable development, peace-building and human dignity.

The committee's adoption of the amended decision requires the World Heritage Centre and advisory bodies to support African State parties in implementing the declaration, subject to the availability of budgetary resources.

However, the Victoria Falls World Heritage Site faces increasing threats from individual and cumulative infrastructural developments.

Unesco's report warns that the site's outstanding universal values could be considered in danger if current development proposals proceed without proper consideration for the environment.

The proposed Batoka Gorge Hydro Electric Scheme has given rise to concerns about its potential impact on the ecological status of the Victoria Falls.

Unesco's World Heritage Committee also called on State parties to revise the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment in line with the Guidance and Toolkit for Impact Assessments in a World Heritage Context.

The Victoria Falls World Heritage Site is also threatened by tourism infrastructural development, noise pollution and waste management issues.

Effective regulation and control of tourism development pressures will be crucial for site managers.

The Joint Integrated Management Plan for the property is being revised to incorporate necessary safeguards and thresholds to mitigate against developmental pressures for the protection of the property's outstanding universal value.

The Unesco World Heritage Committee also expressed concern over the increasing tourism infrastructural development pressures within and around the property, including the start of the construction of the Mosi-oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort Hotel within the buffer zone of the property.

The committee called on State parties to halt further activities until further consultation with the World Heritage Centre and IUCN have taken place and all relevant environmental and social impact assessments have been submitted to the World Heritage Centre and reviewed by IUCN.

It further indicated that the potential impacts of the infrastructural developments on the outstanding universal values of the property should also be adequately assessed.

Source: Unesco World Heritage Committee endorses Mosi-Oa-Tunya/Victoria Falls Declaration (17/07/25)

Zimbabwe's ex-foreign minister Walter Mzembi jailed after spending years in South Africa

 A court in Zimbabwe has dismissed Zimbabwe’s former foreign affairs minister Walter Mzembi’s application challenging his placement on remand, extending his detention.

State-owned The Herald newspaper reported that Harare regional magistrate Donald Ndirowei has dismissed Mzembi’s application challenging his placement on remand.

The matter was postponed to Friday where a date of trial is expected to be allocated.

Authorities in the post-Robert Mugabe-era have issued warrants of arrest against Mzembi since 2008, after the long-time ruler, Mugabe, was unceremoniously removed from power.

The Herald reported that the court has recently confirmation of three outstanding warrants of arrest against Mzembi, who has previously held different cabinet posts in Mugabe’s regime. 

Mzembi, the 61-year-old former Masvingo South Member of Parliament, was arrested on June 14 when he, in a surprise move, returned to Zimbabwe from his base in South Africa, where he had stayed for around seven years.

When he left Zimbabwe in 2018, Mzembi was on bail, and he had convinced the Harare authorities that he needed urgent cancer treatment from experts in South Africa. He never returned home to face trial on serious charges of corruption and criminal abuse of office.

In 2021, State media in Zimbabwe reported that the government of Zimbabwe was awaiting a response from their South African counterparts following a request to have Mzembi to Harare for trial on theft and fraud charges.

At the time, Mzembi was accused of criminal abuse of duty, and theft of trust funds involving US$847 000 (more than R15 million). The crimes were allegedly committed while Mzembi was minister of tourism and hospitality, and was spearheading Zimbabwe’s co-hosting of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation Conference in August 2013.

Source: Zimbabwe's ex-foreign minister Walter Mzembi jailed after spending years in South Africa (15/07/25)

Victoria Falls Residents Consortium slams opposition-led council over alleged corruption, poor service delivery

 THE Victoria Falls Residents Consortium has expressed deep disappointment with the opposition-led Victoria Falls City Council, accusing it of presiding over rampant corruption, poor service delivery, and a dysfunctional billing system.

The group voiced its concerns during a press conference, calling for urgent reforms and greater accountability.
Mr Kelvin Moyo, a representative of the consortium, said the council has failed to address alleged corruption and mismanagement.

“From a representation point of view, in as much as CIVIC is there to play the role where we also become the watchdogs, we expect those that sit on a monthly basis to be looking into these matters, to be talking about these corruption allegations, and not only talking about them.

“They should not have allowed some of the corruption that has happened to take place. They should have saw that coming and spoke about it and stopped that,” said Mr Moyo.

He further questioned the competence of some councilors saying there is need for qualified personnel in key positions.

“You know, when somebody goes into council, we need people who are technical or at least competent. For instance, we have got the technical departments. Surely if you get somebody who is coming from the street and does not even have an O-Level certificate, can you really tell me that that guy is going to do informed decisions? You talk about the finance department. You find somebody is heading the finance committee, and that guy does not even know anything,” he said.

Mr Moyo further said Victoria Falls, as a key tourism and economic hub, deserves even more competent leadership.
“Victoria Falls is a key city and it is high time we got people that will really give us service. People with integrity. Not people that are just going to be muzzled and given trinkets, to cover their problems. It is not going to work well for the community. We will be crying about this corruption forever because the people we are sending into the chambers are not worth the salt,” he said.

Source: Victoria Falls Residents Consortium slams opposition-led council over alleged corruption, poor service delivery (09/07/2025)

Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Struggles with a Forty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025

 Zimbabwe’s tourism industry is grappling with significant losses, having faced nearly US\$40 million in potential revenue cuts during the first quarter of 2025. This setback is a result of investor departures, ongoing economic instability, and a decrease in consumer spending, undermining one of the country’s most vital economic sectors.

Official reports indicate a substantial 16% drop in tourism revenue, with receipts declining from US\$241 million in the same period last year to US\$202 million. This translates to a daily revenue loss of over US\$440,000, marking the worst performance since the pandemic halted global travel. The sharp decline raises doubts about Zimbabwe’s goal of reaching US\$5 billion in annual tourism revenue, as investor confidence continues to falter, and funding for local tourism operators remains scarce.

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) reported a 9% decrease in international arrivals, with the number of foreign visitors dropping to 336,369. Domestic tourism also experienced a significant 18% decline, falling from nearly two million last year to 1.6 million. The situation worsens with a US\$2 million decline in new tourism investments, as operators struggle with high interest rates and a reduced consumer spending power.

The 16% decline in tourism revenue has had a direct impact on the country’s GDP, lowering it by 0.09%. With the tourism sector’s multiplier effect estimated at 3.2, the economy is potentially losing up to US$125 million, which represents approximately 0.3% of GDP. This downturn threatens Zimbabwe’s 2025 GDP growth target of 5%, with projections suggesting it could fall to 3.8% if the trend continues.

Amid the national downturn, Victoria Falls remains a bright spot. The region saw only a slight decline in performance, with hotel occupancy rates dropping by less than 2% compared to the previous year. Both large-scale hotels and smaller businesses reported positive results.

Nevertheless, overall national hotel occupancy has fallen to 37%, a decline from 39% last year, signaling a reduction in demand across the country. ZTA data further highlights stark regional differences. European arrivals dropped by 35%, with even steeper declines from Nordic countries (65%), Switzerland (46%), and Italy (43%). Visitors from Oceania, primarily Australia and New Zealand, also saw a significant 51% reduction, possibly linked to challenges in air travel connectivity.

In contrast, Asia showed positive growth. The number of tourists from Malaysia rose by 135%, Japan saw an 86% increase, and China/Hong Kong experienced a 26% boost. These gains may be due to improved bilateral relations or the resumption of direct flights between Zimbabwe and key Asian nations.

The decline in tourism reflects deeper structural issues that need to be addressed. High visa fees, negative perceptions of the country, expensive travel costs, and underdeveloped infrastructure are significant barriers to tourism growth. While improvements to airports are important, factors such as safety, clean water, reliable electricity, and good governance are critical to fostering a successful tourism sector.

This tourism downturn is part of a broader economic struggle. Despite an increase in mining output, foreign exchange earnings from the sector fell by 27% in the first quarter of 2025, leading to a loss of US\$204 million in potential inflows. Weak global commodity prices and logistical challenges are contributing factors to this decline.

Business sentiment is also deteriorating, with companies expressing frustration over the high cost of credit and the scarcity of affordable financing. Reports indicate that lending rates ranging from 40% to 47% are putting a strain on businesses, exacerbating the economic challenges.

As neighboring countries like South Africa experience a rebound in tourism, Zimbabwe faces the risk of falling further behind unless immediate reforms are enacted.

Zimbabwe’s tourism sector is at a crossroads, navigating a tough period with an uncertain road to recovery ahead. The challenges remain significant, and only time will tell if the country can overcome this economic turbulence.

Source: Zimbabwe Tourism Industry Strorty Million US Dollar Revenue Loss in the First Quarter of 2025, as Economic Turmoil and Investor Exodus Threaten Future Growth (07/07/25)

Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal

 French hospitality giant Accor has announced its entry into Zimbabwe with the signing of a deal for the proposed Novotel Victoria Falls, marking the group’s first hotel brand in the country.

The agreement was formalised during the Future Hospitality Summit Africa that ended in South Africa on Thursday, positioning Accor as a first mover in one of Africa’s most iconic tourism destinations.

“This signing represents a bold step forward in our development strategy for Sub-Saharan Africa,” said Maya Ziade, Accor’s chief development officer for the region.

He described Victoria Falls as one of the world’s most extraordinary destinations and noted that the group is “proud to bring the Novotel brand experience to Zimbabwe for the very first time.”

“As a first mover, we see this project as a gateway to long-term sustainable growth in the country.”

Scheduled to open in 2028, the 111-room hotel will be developed in partnership with Eagle Real Estate Investment Trust and located in the Eagle Heights precinct, overlooking the Masuwe River.

The property will feature an outdoor pool, kids’ club and all-day dining, tailored to modern travellers seeking comfort and local immersion.

Eagle Asset Managers managing director Bevin Ngara said welcome the partnership with Accor, saying it will bring an international standard of hospitality to Victoria Falls.

“This project reflects our vision of investing in transformative developments that elevate tourism and deliver value to local communities and investors alike.”

The move comes amid rising regional and domestic tourism in Zimbabwe, with Victoria Falls increasingly positioned as a year-round destination.

Victoria Falls – known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya or “The Smoke That Thunders” – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Beyond its dramatic waterfall, the resort town is a magnet for adventure tourism, offering white-water rafting, bungee jumping and helicopter tours.

With over 590 Novotel properties worldwide, the Accor’s debut in Zimbabwe is expected to elevate the country’s hospitality offering and support its broader tourism growth strategy.

Source: Accor enters Zimbabwe with Novotel Victoria Falls deal (20/06/25)

New Report on Victoria Falls Contested Conservation Zone

Keep Victoria Falls Wild, June 2025

A new report, commissioned by Keep Victoria Falls Wild, reviews the protections given under the UNESCO World Heritage Listing and concludes the south-bank riverine fringe, and site of the controversial Baines Restaurant development, is located within the 'Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone' which affords the maximum level of protection under the Listing - and prevents all new infrastructure development.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (June 2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe (pdf download, 1.8mb)

The text of the 2016 Joint Integrated Management Plan (JIMP), the latest approved plan covering the management of the World Heritage Site, definitively places riverine fringe above the Falls as being within the Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (HESZ). (Following quote annotated with additional details in block brackets for clarity).

(i) Highly Ecologically Sensitive Zone (Block 6) - Starting from... the Victoria Falls Bridge, thence north-westwards following the [fenced boundary of VFNP Area B along the road corridor past the] Victoria Falls Rainforest [entrance, following this boundary round to the turning off of the riverside road known as ‘Zambezi Drive’], thence up the Zambezi River [along the line of the road], covering the riverine vegetation strip to where it joins the Zambezi National Park boundary.” (State Parties, 2016, p.29/90)

Map showing boundary of Victoria Falls World Heritage Site management zones.

(click image for larger jpg version - 1 mb).

The report concludes "To interpret the zonation covering the riparian fringe as anything other than within the HESZ would be to conflict with the 2016 JIMP as well as with over 100 years of conservation and protection of the Falls environment... Questions need be asked as to how and why the National Park Director General, then Dr Fulton Mangwanya, could believe that this area was within the MESZ in his approval letter for the Baines Restaurant development (ZPWMA, June 2021). It is beyond belief to imagine that this was a simple mistake or oversight." (KVFW, 2025)

The report also highlights a history of manipulation of information presented in reports to UNESCO and dilution of protections to give false legitimacy to tourism developments in the south-bank (Zimbabwean) upstream riverine corridor (KVFW 2023a, 2024). These include the area of the upstream ZNP missing from the 2007 JIMP map and text descriptions, and which subsequently saw the development of the Victoria Falls River Lodge (opened in 2012), before being confirmed as being within the HESZ in the 2016 JIMP (despite which the area also saw the development of the Old Drift Lodge in 2018). In a second example the area of the upstream riverine fringe surrounding the Elephant Hills Golf Course, identified as being within the HESZ in the 2007 JIMP, is demoted to the MESZ in the map and text descriptions presented in the 2016 JIMP, without the changes being justified or explained, despite commitments by State Parties not to dilute the protections of the WHS. This area is now under threat from the proposed 'Tree Lodge' development.

In addition the report identifies the persistent failure of State Parties to report proposed developments and submit thorough independent ESIA (Environmental and Social Impact Assessment) documents to UNESCO for comment before they are approved.

The report calls for the closure and removal of all illegitimate developments within the World Heritage Site HESZ and a full investigation into how these developments were allowed by the Zimbabwean National Park Authority.

Read More

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023a) 2023 State of Development Final Report.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2023b) Spotlight on Baines Restaurant.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2024) 2024 State of Development Final Report.

Keep Victoria Falls Wild (2025) Special Report on the Riverine Fringe (pdf download, 1.8mb)

State Parties (2016) 2016-2021 Victoria Falls/Mosi-oa-Tunya World Heritage Site Joint Integrated Management Plan. [Available to download from the UNESCO World Heritage website here.]

Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (June 2021) Application (former Railway Water-Pump Station, Victoria Falls Long Term Lease. Letter from Dr F U Mangwanya, Director-General, ZPWMA, 22 June 2021, Document Q6; Appendix A. [Available to download from KVFW website here.].

Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project

 The Zimbabwe Investment and Development Agency (ZIDA) is actively seeking both local and international investors to participate in the development of Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate, a flagship project within the Masuwe Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in Victoria Falls. This ambitious initiative, owned by the Mosi oa Tunya Development Company, covers 271.5 hectares and was officially declared a Special Economic Zone on September 28, 2018, with the aim of establishing a world-class tourism and financial services hub.

The Masuwe SEZ is designed to enhance tourism-related activities by integrating tourism, recreational, and sporting facilities with commercial, medical, and conference centres, alongside an international finance centre and other complementary developments. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe's premier tourism destination, offers an ideal backdrop for this project, which seeks to address the current shortage of high-quality amenities needed to support the growing tourism sector.

The development of Lot 1 involves extensive infrastructure work, including the construction of roads, water and sewer systems, power grids, and telecommunication networks to support the growth of the zone. Plans also include the building of new villas, lodges, and holiday homes, as well as a tourism and hospitality school aimed at nurturing local talent in the sector.

Commercial and financial services form a major part of the project, with the establishment of a commercial centre featuring retail spaces, office buildings, and an international financial services centre designed to attract global businesses. The project further incorporates two medical centres, a golf course, and a multi-purpose international cricket stadium, with construction of the stadium already underway.

The total estimated cost of the project is approximately US$150 million. Core infrastructure is expected to cost about US$81.6 million, while medical centres will require US$15.9 million. The construction of villas and holiday homes is projected at US$7.8 million, and the commercial and financial services centre will need around US$17 million. The tourism and hospitality school is estimated at US$10.7 million, the golf course at US$10 million, and the cricket stadium at US$7.5 million.

ZIDA is highlighting the project's potential to create significant employment opportunities, boost local economies, and position Zimbabwe as a competitive player in the global tourism and financial services markets. To attract investors, the agency is offering various incentives, including tax breaks, streamlined regulatory processes, and guaranteed repatriation of profits.

With its strategic location, comprehensive development plan, and strong financial incentives, Lot 1 of Jafuta Estate presents a prime opportunity for investors seeking to capitalise on Zimbabwe's expanding tourism and financial sectors.

Source: Zida courts investors for US$150m Victoria Falls project (02/06/2025)