Zimbabwe Appointed Vice President at UN Tourism General Assembly
Zimbabwe has taken a prominent role on the global tourism stage after being appointed as one of the Vice Presidents of the United Nations Tourism General Assembly during its 26th session, which officially opened in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on 9 November 2025.
The appointment marks a major milestone for Zimbabwe’s tourism diplomacy, with the country now positioned to help shape the future of sustainable travel and development across Africa and beyond.
The nation was represented at the event by the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon Barbara Rwodzi, who will serve alongside Nigeria as Vice President representing the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa.
A pivotal moment for global tourism
The 26th Session of the United Nations World Tourism Organisation General Assembly brought together heads of state, tourism ministers, and industry leaders from across the world to discuss strategies to accelerate the recovery and sustainability of the tourism sector.
The high-level gathering highlighted global cooperation as key to revitalising travel, which has been steadily rebounding after years of disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and economic challenges.
Saudi Arabia, which hosted the Assembly for the first time, was elected President of the General Assembly, reaffirming its growing influence in driving international tourism growth.
Riyadh has become a global hub for major tourism investments, positioning itself as a key player in promoting sustainability and innovation in the sector.
Zimbabwe’s leadership role
Minister Rwodzi described Zimbabwe’s appointment as “a proud moment for the nation and a testament to our commitment to advancing Africa’s tourism agenda on the world stage.”
As Vice President, Zimbabwe will play a strategic role in advocating for policies that promote sustainable tourism, intra-African travel, and inclusive community-based tourism initiatives. The position also allows Zimbabwe to influence global tourism policy discussions, supporting the country’s vision of becoming a regional leader in eco-friendly and cultural travel experiences.
The nation has been strengthening its tourism portfolio through international partnerships, infrastructure development, and marketing campaigns to showcase destinations such as Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and the Eastern Highlands to the global market.
A new era of leadership
In another historic moment, Ms Shaikha Nasser Al Nowais was elected as the new Secretary-General of UN Tourism, becoming the first woman to hold the post since the organisation’s founding.
Her appointment, made through a unanimous vote by Member States, was hailed as a breakthrough for gender equality and inclusivity in global tourism governance.
Ms Al Nowais is expected to lead the organisation into a new era of innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability.
In her acceptance remarks, she emphasised the importance of “building a tourism sector that benefits people, planet, and prosperity.”
Strengthening global cooperation
The 26th Session of the UN Tourism General Assembly concluded with renewed commitments to promote responsible tourism, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth.
Delegates also underscored the need to support developing countries, particularly in Africa, in building stronger tourism infrastructure and capacity.
For Zimbabwe, this recognition not only enhances its international standing but also strengthens its influence in shaping a more connected and sustainable global tourism landscape.