Mishma Chakanyuka, Staff Writer 
The tourism industry is confident that the coming in of new airlines will enhance the country’s competitiveness in the region and the world.
It comes as there has been a flurry of airlines adding Zimbabwe to their routes over the past six months.
“We celebrate the coming in of Zambia Airways, as we have always said and maintained that airlines are the key enabler of the tourism sector.
“Air transport is the lifeblood of the tourism sector, no destination remains prosperous without a reliable and efficient air transport system,” Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe president Wengayi Nhau told The Financial Gazette at the launch of Zambia Airways flight to Harare.
“We are looking at more airlines coming into Zimbabwe that enhance the destination’s competitiveness as far as benchmarking with the region and the rest of the destinations in the world.”
The relaunched route will be serviced three times weekly.
Speaking at the same event, Transport deputy minister Mike Madiro stressed the importance of air connectivity to trade and tourism.
“Air transport, leveraged by robust airport infrastructures, is pivotal to economic growth. The aesthetic glamour and attractive splendour of airport infrastructure is a guaranteed nectar of tourism, leading to other positives such as trade and regional integration.
“It improves the movement of people and goods in a more cost-effective way. It is our hope therefore, that as this connectivity facilitates tourism, cultural and business exchanges, economic opportunities and people-to-people relations will improve,” he said.
