Agritourism in Zimbabwe: Potential Tourism Driver
Agriculture and tourism, some of the two unlikely words you might see together. However, Zimbabwe is trying to make this work. Agritourism in Zimbabwe is a potential boost for tourism in Zimbabwe with places like Msinje farm taking most of the limelight. Zimbabwe’s agric sector is vibrant and leaning on it for tourism would be advantageous. However, the potential needs unearthing to make it a success. A lot of work needs to take place, especially regarding infrastructure among other things.
What is agritourism and its benefits?
Firstly, a paper written discussing agritourism as an alternative to Zimbabwe’s tourism mentions it as tourist activity to inform people on farming activities (for example) for recreation in an agricultural environment. This form of tourism is common in areas like the USA, Italy, South Africa and a number of places all over the world.
Secondly, the paper states that agritourism can create employment. The tourism sector suffered a huge blow due to COVID, and agritourism in Zimbabwe can boost it. Local tourism can be the first point of call in agritourism. Packages fit for locals can quick start this boost. This can only work if packages are affordable unlike some sectors in the industry where costs are still high. Employment of locals will benefit the communities. It will also contribute to employers hiring devoted individuals. People tend to have strong ties with communities they grow up in. Additionally, this usually creates loyalty to employment if it is close to home.
Thirdly, it can generate more revenue for owners. The majority of farmers in Zimbabwe have been at it for years and this means they can easily facilitate tours on the day to day running of farms. This will mean they got more income without having to spend on training. It can be easily plugged into the existing farming activities, with owners or employees taking charge of these tours. They can also make a spectacle on some of the activities they do like harvesting, fishing and horse riding. This will help them improve revenue showcasing activities they already do. This can help boost agritourism in Zimbabwe.
Agritourism in Zimbabwe turning potential to success
However, all this is just potential. To achieve this there is need for implementation. There is need for stakeholders to work together to ensure this becomes a booming industry. Moreso, players in the agriculture industry need awareness campaigns on the benefits of agritourism. This possibility can be made a success only when players are dedicated to make it a success. To execute this needs all hands on deck starting with agreement by those in the industry.
Additionally, the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) with help from the relevant ministries need to be roped in. The Authority can facilitate a smooth ride for players in the tourism and agriculture industry to embrace agribusiness. ZTA can also facilitate funding toward this initiative. It can create platforms for players to get investment opportunities in areas that need improvement. Investment for development of certain infrastructure specific for agritourism in Zimbabwe to rope in tourists is ideal.
Finally, agritourism in Zimbabwe has massive potential in. It can increase revenue for those in the agriculture industry as well as the tourism industry. Furthermore, it can create employment for locals, thus improving their lives and their communities. However, there are some issues that need to be addressed first. Among these are funding and investment. The sector needs financial aid to make this a success. It also needs the collected input of all stakeholders to bring this industry to life.
