Category: Zimbabwe World Best Tourist Destination For 2014

BARBARA MZEMBI STARTS REBUILDING MISS TOURISM ZIMBABWE CONTEST

8/15/2016

The winner of this year’s Miss Tourism Zimbabwe pageant which will be held on November 25 at the Harare International Conference Centre shall enjoy a fully sponsored trip to the United States.

This is only one of the changes enacted by the new Zimbabwe Miss Tourism Patrone Mrs. Barbara Mzembi.

Already, the wife of the excellent minister of tourism Mr. Mzembi, had succeeded in supporting his husband and his country efforts in reasserting Zim in international community.

All the important moments in the last years of rebranding Zimbabwe are entertained with Minister Mzembi and his energetic wife names.

Now Miss Zimbabwe Tourism is making no exception.

Tourism Minister Walter Mzembi said the package will “involve the funding of air fares between Harare and Washington, the inbound costs for Miss Tourism when the lady who will finally land this coveted position will go for a period of a week in the United States.

Patron of the Miss Tourism Zimbabwe pageant Barbara Mzembi expressed her gratitude at the US package for the winner as she also said preparations are well on course for the successful staging of the pageant on November 25 at the HICC.

Addressing delegates in the capital yesterday, the new patron of the rebranded pageant and wife to Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Barbara Mzembi said the major reason for rebranding was to give a chance to every Zimbabwean girl to be an ambassador of the country’s tourism sector regardless of where they come from.

“I came up with this initiative to rebrand Miss Carnival to Miss Tourism in an effort to accord every Zimbabwean girl a chance to showcase what they can do to put the country on the world map.

“We want to use this pageant to market the country, so we are looking for a girl with high moral values, someone who we can be proud of and at the end of the day we can say this is a true ambassador of Zimbabwe’s tourism” said Mzembi.

Speaking at the same occasion, Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Chief Executive Officer, Karikoga Kaseke said they have embraced the Miss Tourism brand as it works in line with the Ministry’s agenda of marketing Zimbabwe.

Meanwhile, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Walter Mzembi, has urged Zimbabweans to support the Miss Tourism pageant by donating $1 which he said will go a long way in supporting the girl child.

“We are appealing to everyone to rally behind this great initiative. It is not only a beauty pageant but we are trying to make it an initiative that will go a long way in helping the girl child.

So we are saying lets support by giving $1 so that our girls can have a fund that will assist them,” he said while donating $2 for himself and his wife.

Miss Tourism Zimbabwe will be the country’s premier modelling pageant that will see the winner representing the country at the Miss Tourism World.

Mrs. Barbara Mzembi at his husband side on the ceremony to elect Minister Walter Mzembi as member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY.

ACADEMICIAN WALTER MZEMBI DECIDED TO PROMOTE AFRICAN TOURISM FROM UNWTO TOP CHAIR

7/25/2016

Minister Walter Mzembi is savouring his success at ZIMBABWE WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 ceremony between President Robert Mugabe of Zimbabwe and President Dr. Anton Caragea of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Dr. Walter Mzembi, the first african minister elected as member of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY is on the road to register another record becoming the first african elected as United Nations Tourism Organisation leader.

The Executive Council of the African Union — comprising the continent’s foreign affairs ministers — decided to endorse Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Dr Walter Mzembi as the continent’s sole candidate for the post of United Nations World Tourism Organisation Secretary-General.

The endorsement comes two days after the AU Committee on Candidature and International Deployment accepted Dr Mzembi’s application for approval as the continent’s candidate.The Executive Council has now asked African Heads of State and Government to approve Academician Walter Mzembi’s endorsement at the ongoing AU Heads of State and Government Summit here.

“The Executive Council takes note of the Ministerial Committee of African Candidates within the international system and approves election to the post of Secretary General of the World Tourism Organisation, the selection process of which starts October 2016, the candidature of Dr Eng Walter Mzembi of the Republic of Zimbabwe,” read a statement released yesterday afternoon.
The Hon. Dr. Walter Mzembi, Ph.D., member of European Tourism Academy has been the current Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry for the Republic of Zimbabwe since 2009.He has also been a member of Parliament for the Masvingo South Constituency since 2004 and the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) Regional Commission for Africa Chairperson from 2013 to date.

Mzembi’s experience in the world of tourism includes: the successful bid of Zimbabwe for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION award in 2014 and designation as FAVOURITE CULTURAL DESTINATION for the same year.
Other strong points for his candidature are: his international positions as Chairman of the Southern Africa Development Community Committee of Tourism Ministers in 2015, UNWTO Executive Council Member from 2009 to 2013, UNWTO Co-President in Session 20 of the General Assembly from 2013-2015, as well as President of the Africa Travel Association (New York-based) 3 times.

Academician Walter Mzembi received many global honors:

– African Tourism Minister of the Year (2011): African Investor Tourism Investment
Awards
– Africa Leadership Awards (2012), Mauritius
– Brand Leadership Award (2012)
– Mark of Excellence Award (2012)
– Africa Leadership and Inspiration Award (2012)
– TouchRoad Sino – Africa Investment Excellence Awards (2011), Shanghai, China
– Africa Travel Association-Outstanding Service to the Association (2012), USA
– Special Recognition for Excellence Award: African Achievers Awards (2012), Nairobi, Kenya
– Africa Travel Association Presidency Appreciation Award (2012-2014), USA
Additionally, he has received recognition in the domestic arena as well:
– Public Service Manager of the Year (2011), Zimbabwe Institute of Management
– Tourism Personality of the Year (2011), Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe
– Tourism Personality of the Year (2012), Zimbabwe Council for Tourism
– Outstanding Contribution to Agriculture in Zimbabwe (2012), Zimbabwe Farmers Union
– Most Consumer Focused Executive-Service Excellence Awards (2014), Customer Contact Centre
– Tourism Image Builder of the Year (2014), Megafest Tourism Awards
– Exceptional Contribution to Marketing (2015), Marketers Association of Zimbabwe
– Customer Service Executive of the Year-Service Excellence in the Public Sector (2015), Marketers Association of Zimbabwe
-Registered Professional Engineer with the Zimbabwe Engineering Council
-Member of both the Zimbabwe and Zambia Institute of Engineers
-Fellow of the Zimbabwe Institution of Engineers

Dr. Walter Mzembi is receiving the insignia of EUROPEAN TOURISM ACADEMY in Harare, 2014, Zimbabwe-WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

PRESIDENT DR. ANTON CARAGEA MARKS AFRICA DAY

6/7/2016

2016-AFRICA DAY CELEBRATION`S carved by European Council on Tourism and Trade

ECTT President, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea has hosted the 2016 Africa Day celebration, on June 1st at the Diplomatic Club, a moment that is the culmination of the celebrations of Africa month in May 2016, across Europe and European Council on Tourism and Trade member countries.

Africa Day is celebrated annually on 25 May, within the African continent to mark the formation of the Organisation of African Unity on 25 May 1963 and the African Union in 2002 and the progress made by the continent since then to advance democracy, peace, stability and socio-economic development via tourism betterment.

The ceremony, held under European Council on Tourism and Trade banner, has brought together representatives from tourism institutes, research centers, diplomatic centers from across the continent.

Nigeria, Benin, Mali, Sudan, Senegal and Congo Brazzaville are among the countries that have sent delegates to the celebration.

European Council on Tourism and Trade joined the efforts to foster the trade and tourism exchanges between the continent and the international community.

“Africa Day provides an opportunity for us to celebrate our African efforts in promoting tourism in the continent, to foster development, to insure the tourists that Africa is a safe, astonishing and welcoming destination.

We will always love Ethiopian people and support Ethiopian tourism development and country growth and affirmation in the world.” said President Caragea.

The Federal Republic of Nigeria Ambassador express clearly the feelings of the participants: We love ECTT-European Council on Tourism and Trade! for what opportunities and occasions had brought to Africa.

More than 100.000 jobs are now created in the last two years, in African tourism sector, and all this is a recognition of the efforts carved out by European Council on Tourism and Trade to promote our continent.Not only Ethiopia and Zimbabwe benefited, but all the nations of the region have being encouraged in developing tourism and tourist were enlisted in discovering African continent!Thank you Professor Caragea !, concluded the ambassador.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea surrounded by the heads of institutions from Nigeria, Benin, Senegal

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea surrounded by the heads of institutions from Nigeria, Benin, Senegal

The group of ladies, expert`s from Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, Cameroon, poses with ECTT President-Dr. Anton Caragea

ANTON CARAGEA-EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM and trade president receives european academy report on world best tourist destination candidates appraisal

6/1/2016

The call for applications for the European Council on Tourism and Trade- Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION is now closed, announced Academician Mircea Constantinescu head of European Tourism Academy.

The ECTT Award for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION IN 2016 is celebrating, this year, the round number of 20 million tourists, that visited countries placed on the list of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION in the last five years.

The Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION and WORLD CAPITAL OF CULTURE AND TOURISM, established in 2000, are the flagship recognitions for national and the global tourism.

They recognize cultural achievements, tourism potential, social role of tourism, knowledge incorporated in tourism development, in accordance with European Council on Tourism and Trade committment for the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) agenda.

The name of winner nation of the European Council on Tourism and Trade – Awards for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 and FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION will be unveiled on Friday, 10 June 2016, in a gala dinner in Bucharest, Romania.

Last year, the ceremony hosted 220 high-level participants from more than 27 european countries, including ministers, ambassadors and tourism industry CEOs.

The European Council on Tourism and Trade – Awards for FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION, to be held on 10th June 2016, will highlight the importance of culture, historical patrimony and artistic creation in tourism and showcase the knowledge and achievements of all ECTT Awards finalists.

European Tourism Academy leader hand it to European Council on Tourism and Trade President his office recommendation regarding the name of the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2016 contest.

EUROPEAN COUNCIL ON TOURISM AND TRADE PRESIDENT OUTLINES THE IMPORTANCE OF TOURISM FOR WORLD DEVELOPMENT

12/19/2015

World Capital of Culture and Tourism and World Best Tourist Destination prizes continues to bring international awareness, national branding and country branding opportunities say`s an European Market and Research study.

IRS Market and Research Company outlined the impressive results of the countries that marketed themselfs or their main tourist cities as capitals of culture and tourism or as world best tourism destinations.

Receiving the report, European Council on Tourism and Trade President-Professor Dr. Anton Caragea remarked that: I am so happy to see how previously unknown and un-marketed destinations receive mass media limelight and are pro-pulsed as emerging tourist destination.Diplomats from this nation`s are having their tasks made easier, as their countries are propelled on the top nations stage and economic growth and investment.

Development and country branding are coming as the result of a long-term program based on World Best Tourist Destination or World Capital of Culture and Tourism prizes and designation.

I receive countless expression of gratitude for our support from leaders, politicians and ambassadors, who are finding their exertions much facilitated by tourism seal of approval of ECTT, but the most moving are the stories of the people`s who find jobs and opportunities, that other ways would have not existed.But now their life are richer and more dignified, this is the transforming power of country branding via culture, history and tourism.

This is internationalization and nation branding achieving their best results!

Ashgabat-World Capital of Culture and Tourism and Turkmenistan capital received an impressive mass media coverage in television spots and printed press and radio shows in value of more than 16 million euros and Dushanbe, Tajikistan capital, obtained a media coverage of more than 21 million euros, reflecting their cultural achievements and world capital of culture and tourism status.

World Best Tourist Destination status brings also free publicity in articles, television of more than 50 million for Laos People`s Democratic Republic, around 30 million for Zimbabwe and the top is lead by Ethiopia who benefited of a publicity coverage of more than 60 million euros.

What is more important than just the figures, mentioned in the marketing report, is the fact that: these countries will benefit for years and years to come by their achievements as world best tourist destination or world capital of culture stated Mr. Radu Alexandru, communication unit chief of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

The reports finding are limited to october 2015, while tourism promotion and branding is an ongoing process that can never be fully accounted for declared the european official.

Laos-World Best Tourist Destination for 2013. Glamorous ceremony in Vientiane!

AFRICA`S TOP LUXURY HOTELS FROM The Leading Hotels of the World GROUP: MEIKLES HOTEL IN HARARE

7/12/2014

In 2015 Meikles Hotel will turn 100-years-old. It was the brainchild of Thomas Meikles who envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.

Come an visit !For over 100 years, visiting members of Royal families, international and local statesmen, and celebrities worldwide, have preferred to stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel, where they are assured of privacy and care.

On the occasion of Zimbabwe familiarization trip for European Council on Tourism and Trade Organization (ECTT), the director of hospitality and amenities department of ECTT: Mr. Ioan Matei has assessed the accommodation, amenities and tourism facilities existent in Zimbabwe.

As a result of this first hand observation, for a period comprised between 29 May-7 June 2014, ECTT department of hospitality and amenities is recommending as ones of the best African hotels, offering luxurious condition and a perfect structured management: the Victoria Fall Hotel in Victoria Falls and Meikles Hotel in Harare (part of The Leading Hotels of the World).

Victoria Falls Hotel-best luxury hotel in Africa

The home of royalty for the last 100 years: VICTORIA FALLS HOTEL

The two hotels are fully complying with international standards, are offering luxury and full five stars commodities, safety and large are of opportunities for a lavish stay in the heart of Africa: Zimbabwe.

As the country was named as World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 is expected to receive in the next two years large number of international tourists, and the need for recommendation of luxury hotels is in full spring.

Victoria Falls Hotels is priding himself as having 180 rooms decorated in a manner that recaptures the comfortable charm of a bygone age, with colonial prints, four-poster and canopied beds, antique furniture and well-chosen artifacts.

Modern facilities and amenities mingle well with the old-fashioned ambience, including such 21st century travellers’ necessities as personal safes, minibars, bathrobes, digital satellite television and even umbrellas for the convenience of guests visiting the Rain Forest surrounding the Falls. Deluxe Rooms and Suites in the original section of the hotel offer breathtaking views across the deep Zambezi River gorge to the Victoria Falls Bridge and the spray of the Falls.

Victoria Falls Hotel has being home for more that 100 years to the royalty of Europe, their list of guests in this period being a true who’s who of the world.

The second recommended luxury establishment is Meikles Hotel in Harare that is celebrating a 100 year history and has always envisioned a commitment to the “highest possible standard of service and product” – something that has become enshrined in the Meikles culture.

It has always been an iconic landmark of capital city Harare, one which has constantly and gracefully evolved through the colonial era of Rhodesia into modern- day Zimbabwe. Its position in the heart of the city has allowed its walls to bear witness to many events that have shaped the Zimbabwe’s past.

Today Meikles-Harare is offering an atmosphere steeped in history, combining the charm of the old with the comfort and convenience of today.

Meikles Hotel-Harare-Best African luxury hotelThe team of ECTT is warmly congratulates the two hotels: Meikles and Victoria Fall for their long history of achievements and is encouraging all the travellers interested in discovering Africa to visit Zimbabwe-World Best Tourist Destination in 2014 and to benefit the best’s hotel’s that Africa is having to offer: Meikles Harare Hotel and Victoria Falls Hotel in Victoria.

Enjoy your stay!
Meikles Hotel-Harare http://www.meikles.com/

The Victoria Falls Hotelhttp://www.victoria-falls-hotels.net/

WORLD MOST IMPORTANT TOURISM PRIZE: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014 ENTRUSTED TO PEOPLE OF ZIMBABWE

6/19/2014

European Council on Tourism and Trade, an organization encompassing the interest of tourism industry from 28 European countries with a population surpassing 700 millions inhabitants announced his winner of world most important tourism kudos:WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD.

We have the honor of presenting you the full text of the empowering speech by European Council on Tourism and Trade president on this felicitous celebration:

Your Excellency, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, and Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Cde Robert Gabriel Mugabe;

The Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Cde Joice Mujuru;

Members of the Politburo;

All Cabinet Minister and Members of the House of Assembly and the Senate;

President of the Chiefs Council and all Chiefs here present;

Members of the Diplomatic Corps;

Ladies and Gentlemen, all protocol observed

H.E. Professor Dr. Anton CarageaECTT President, MA, FINS, ETA speech at WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD for Zimbabwe

As always, the ceremony for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD is the embodiment of an idea and the universal proclamation of a country that succeeded in materializing this idea to the fullest.

Last year we concentrated on the idea that in the world of today, tourism is a causeway uniting knowledge and friendship, peoples and countries, a way to promote peace and understanding, a road that leads towards a better future for all.

We see the recipient of the WORLD BEST TOURISM AWARD, ZIMBABWE, not only standing for the idea of a resurrection of Africa and African people, but also symbolizing Africa’s determination to undertake the long journey to global significance.

We have also noted with great satisfaction that Zimbabwe has persistently viewed tourism as one of the pillars of its economy, going forward. Your successive economic blueprints, right up to the current one, the ZIMASSET, recognize the critical value-adding role that the tourism sector can play in your economy.

Your Excellency, we are aware that in 2013 you signed the United Nations World Tourism Organization’s Golden Book of Tourism. We must congratulate and commend you highly for signing that book. Yours was the 29th signature by various world statesmen throughout the globe, who have pledged their support for global tourism, with its critical role of promoting both the economic, as well as the social wellbeing of the world. Needless to say, tourism can do a great deal of social and economic good for Africa, including Zimbabwe.

Mr. President, in our consideration for whom to give this award to, we learnt, amongst many other facts about your country, of your economic model ensuring that local communities participate and benefit from enterprises that exploit and benefit from the conservation of bio-diversity of both flora and fauna, was born here. We are here to urge you along this course, because that makes Zimbabwe a steward of the earth’s flora and fauna, in its pristine condition, for the benefit and enjoyment of all humanity including Zimbabwe’s own posterity.

Your government’s well placed recognition of tourism as an important sector is also evident in your decision to create a stand-alone Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, back in 2009.

Even more fundamental for us, is your acknowledgement that tourism is a peace sector, constantly building bridges amongst the various peoples of the world.

Your recognition of this truth is evidenced, in part, by the support you have given your Minister of Tourism to travel the world, east and west, ensuring that this bridge between your country and the rest of the world remains intact and promote real people-to-people warmth and friendship.

It is not only for these philosophical reasons that we found your country worthy of this award, the fact is your country if well-endowed with historical and cultural features of great worth and value to all humanity. These range from the massive long-standing architectural structures of Great Zimbabwe monument, and others like it all over your country, to rock paintings and artefacts that symbolize early human civilization. Zimbabwe is indeed a destination of global note and the recognition of many of your country’s features as UNESCO Human Heritage sites says as much.

We did explain in great detail in our 3rd of May Press Release that we put out for this purpose, why we found Zimbabwe a deserving recipient of these awards, but my address would be amiss if I failed to refer to the well-known hospitality and peace- loving nature of the Zimbabwean people. It is quite appropriate that you position your people as one of the Seven Wonders that characterize Zimbabwe. Zimbabweans, both at home and in the diaspora, are generally well-known for their hard-work and cheerfulness – they are a wonder indeed.

H.E. President of Zimbabwe-Robert Mugabe and H.E. Professor Dr. Anton Caragea MA, FINS, ETA at WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD ceremony for Zimbabwe

Last but not least, Your Excellency, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is not only in Zimbabwe that we have found a naturally and culturally well-endowed destination, but it is here that we find an exceptional combination of peace and security, combined with a crime-free environment and an exceptionally hospitable people. Visitors here are bound to feel welcome, safe and secure, and that is probably the reason why the United Nations World Tourism Organization decided to hold the 20th Session of its General Assembly, which turned out to be its most successful, here in Zimbabwe at the magnificent Victoria Falls.

Your Excellency Mr. President, it is my great honor and privilege to hand over this title as an international recognition for all the people of Zimbabwe, all united in the service of protecting and preserving the historical and cultural heritage of your country, leveraging tourism and culture, in the service of the people of Zimbabwe.

This title is also a challenge because we now expect your country and people to hold what you have in trust on behalf of world culture and tourism. May this award be used to enhance the international standing of the Republic of ZIMBABWE-A WORLD OF WONDERS. It is my privilege and honour Mr. President, to handover to Your Excellency, as the representative of your country and tourism, the Award for theWORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

EUROPE SALUTES HIS FIRST AFRICAN ACADEMICIAN: WALTER MZEMBI-MINISTER OF TOURISM AND HOSPITALITY OF ZIMBABWE

6/19/2014

On the venue of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 official function held in Zimbabwe`s capital Harare, Academician Mircea Constantinescu, the Director of European Tourism Academy- has officially presented the insignia and certificate of membership to European Tourism Academy to the most recent elected member-The Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Republic of Zimbabwe-Walter Mzembi.

Here is Academician Mircea Constantinescu declaration on this solemn occasion:

We are here to award to Dr. Walter Mzembi, the Minster of Zimbabwe, the Academician status and Medal of Honor, by the European Tourism Academy.

Director of European Tourism Academy-Professor Dr. Mircea Constantinescu makes the laudatio for Walter Mzembi-Minister of Tourism and Hospitality of Zimbabwe

We may say from the beginning that the curriculum vitae as well as the entire activity of dr. Walter Mzembi are remarkable and represent a very successful combination between high level knowledge and expertise, and efficient action implemented in different areas of the public service.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a very resourceful person and a man of many talents.

His initial activity in the area of mechanical engineering, mining activity, water resources engineering, development and management, land resettlement and agro industrial management provided him with extensive knowledge and expertise. This is also a confirmation that his doctorate in management is well deserved.

The studies and diploma in Business and Governance studies of Dr. Walter Mzembi gave him credentials for being a knowledgeable member of the Zimbabwe government and of the different Parliamentary bodies and committees.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is at the same time a great patriot. He loves his country, Zimbabwe, and the people of Zimbabwe.

He put his enthusiasm, energy and knowledge in making a better life for the people and promoting the image of his country all over the world.

Chairman of Parliamentary Committe of ECTT-Senator Ionel Agrigoroaei bestow the Academician Medal for Academician Walter Mzembi

One may think that in a large and complex country like Zimbabwe, being a Minister of Tourism may be much easier than in other areas of activity. But what the international tourist visiting Zimbabwe nowadays might see is only the tip of the aisberg. Practically all the Zimbabwe economy is benefiting from and contributing to a successful tourism, making the tourism the third largest contributor to the Gross Domestic Product, after mining and agriculture sectors.

Dr. Walter Mzembi’s expertise in all these areas was extremely useful.

Mother Nature was generous with Zimbabwe. The numerous natural reservations represent a valuable asset and create a legal framework for preserving the natural resources and wonderful landscapes, as well as building a tourism structure. After our working trips and evaluations of many countries of the world, we know that only the beauty of a scenery does not make a tourist attraction and does not bring revenues to the people.

You need modern infrastructure, need people to provide services and stewardship, need financial and human resources, need communication and good will, and above all you need to be proud of your country.

Dr. Walter Mzembi knows all that, and since 2009 he and his team, with the support of the entire Zimbabwe government, developed and implemented a successful strategy for the Zimbabwe tourism.

Dr. Walter Mzembi is a born communicator and diplomat.

And this is not a pure laudation. The recognition of his merits in this area are confirmed by the appreciation of the Institute of Public Relations, by the African Travel Association, by the United Nations World Tourism Organization, by the Institute Of Cultural Diplomacy, and by many other national and international professional bodies.

But there are not the titles and diplomas that finally count, but the results, and Dr. Walter Mzembi, as Minister of Tourism of Zimbabwe got remarkable results since 2009. He realized that a continuous development of domestic tourism will not be enough. The tourism of Zimbabwe, as the entire Zimbabwe nation must be reconnected to the world.

It was not an easy task for a country that has been confronted with an unlawful isolation for more than a decade. The president Robert Mugabe, the Zimbabwe Government and Parliament, supported by all the Zimbabwe people, played and essential role in installing again Zimbabwe into the great concert of the nations.

Dr. Walter Mzembi was part of this continuous effort of communication and diplomacy inside and outside the country, and his role as Minister of Tourism was important and with remarkable results.

So there is almost no surprise that with remarkable personalities like Dr. Walter Mzembi, Zimbabwe was nominated as the 2014 Best Tourist Destination by the European Council on Tourism and Trade, award handed over by President Dr. Anton Caragea during an official ceremony.

As a recognition of his contribution to the development of Zimbabwe tourism, we are proud to hand over the title of Academician member of Honor and to bestow the Medal Of Honor to his Excellency Dr. Walter Mzembi, Minister of Zimbabwe tourism, and to congratulate his as the newest academician of our European Tourism Academy.

ZIMBABWE GETS THE TOP TOURISM PRIZE: WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014

5/15/2014

Zimbabwe has become the first African country to be nominated as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION. The decision has being taken by European Council on Tourism and Trade, the main european body entrusted to promote European tourism in the world.

The decision was announced by the President Office of European Council on Tourism and Trade at the end of two day`s of debates on the occasion of European spring 2014 tourism conference.

On May 3, 2014 in a public séance of the European Council on Tourism and Trade, gathering representatives of tourism organizations from European continent has debated the list of candidates for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION for 2014.

President of European Council on Tourism and Trade declares ZIMBABWE as WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

On the debate for WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014, Professor Dr. Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) presented the report titled: ZIMBABWE: THE PERFECT AFRICAN DESTINATION. A SEVEN WONDER IN TOURISM AND CULTURAL POTENTIAL proposing ZIMBABWE as the winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 and as receiver of FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION distinction for 2014.

Among the reasons for awarding WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 to ZIMBABWE the report outlined:

-                      The peerless organization of World Tourism Organization General Assembly in 24-30 August 2013, the world gathering of tourism experts comprising more than 120 countries.

The successful organizing of this world event, despite tremendous logistic and economic challenges, proves without a doubt the capacity of Zimbabwe authority and tourism industry to organize world level events and to host all level of tourism.

After the perfect support and creative vision in carving a successful world tourism meeting, ZIMBABWE has unequivocal demonstrated that is a safe, open and perfect managed tourism power house.

-                      The promotion and support offered to a new concept of community natural protection supporting tourism friendly to nature, with low ecological impact and preservation of natural biodiversity and protection of endangered species and areas, especially rainforest south-African eco-climate.

Community based ecotourism protection carved by Minister Walter Mzembi is a perfect way to share revenues and income, to support rural communities in prospering and presenting their foodstuff and handicrafts to the world and to make eco-tourism as the base for an economic local development.
Sharing tourism benefits to all the population, offering eco-friendly tourism it is a lesson that REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is offering to the world.

Delegates from 27 countries debated the future of tourism for a two day summit.

-                      Offering to tourists and outstanding and pristine nature and the opportunity to explore nature, to contribute to ecological preservation and the opportunity to visit extraordinary space such as: the unique landscape of Victoria Waterfall, the National Parks as: Mana, Eastern Highlands from Manicaland, Mana Basins from West Mashonaland, Exfoliated Hills from Matebeland, Chilojo Cliffs, and Matobo Hills from Bulawayo etc.

All this regions and natural parks are model of achievements in ecological and green tourism that must be world recognized.

-                      The continuous development and protection of cultural and historical patrimony of Republic of Zimbabwe, the transformation of Harare in a historical and spiritual center offering to the visitor a glimpse into rich culture and heritage of people’s of Zimbabwe

-                      The preservation of an outstanding historical and cultural patrimony that comprises wonderful sites such as: cultural, historical and rich legacy of Great Kingdom of Zimbabwe, the preservation of the former capital of Shone Kingdom-Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo area with a world-class fortification system and palatial complex from 12th century, this are offering a rare insight for tourists into one of the greatest civilization of pre-colonial Africa and a rare window into traditions of centuries.

-                      Today, REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is creating and offering for tourists an open air museum, a rare collection of historical and archeological treasures that educate and enrich the world.

An unanimity vote choose ZIMBABWE as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014

-                      – The preservation of cultural and natural sites of world significance and value such as: Great Zimbabwe National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Khami Ruins National Monument (added to UNESCO list in 1986), Matobo Hills (added to UNESCO list in 2003), Mana Pools National Park, Sapi and Chewore Safari Areas (added to UNESCO list in 1984), Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls and UNESCO candidate regions as: Ziwa national monuments dating from Stone Age period with an incomparable contribution to world legacy.

-                      The REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is today a hot spot for adventure tourism offering a large area of regions suitable for this special kind of tourism and the necessary infrastructure to welcome adventure sicker, the safety structures and natural potential to rank amongst the top world adventure spots.

-                      Keeping alive spiritual tradition, integrating tourist`s and visitors in the atmosphere of the REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE people, offering possibility for an enriching cultural experience, are all achievements that transform REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE in a spiritual first class destination.

After hearing the report, Senator Ionel Agrigoroaiei, from Romanian Parliament and Director of European Parliamentary Committee in European Council on Tourism and Trade had express the feeling’s of all present at the gathering declaring that: REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is the perfect candidate, with a perfect record of promoting eco-friendly tourism, ecological and social oriented tourism and that only a unanimity vote in favor of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE could express the unwavering European tourism and economic community support in favor of such a world model.

Mr. Victor Deleanu, ECTT rapporteur, presented also a report on ZIMBABWE: HOT SPOT OF ADVENTURE TOURISM reiterating the highest praises for the country safety record and infrastructure and hospitality industry achievements that are making Zimbabwe the perfect destination in Africa.

REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE is from 3 May 2014 the official winner of WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD FOR 2014.

Mr. Mihai Prundianu, Chairman of Trade Mission of ECTT also highlighted the importance that today, when Africa is celebrated 50 years of African Unity, Europe must express his commitment and appreciation for Africa by crowning ZIMBABWE as FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION AND WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014.

In the end of the debate European Council on Tourism and Trade decided, unanimously, to award WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION FOR 2014 TITLE TO REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE and to declare REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE -FAVORITE CULTURAL DESTINATION in 2014.

It was also presented the Official Invitation, on behalf of Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE for a delegation of European high-ranking official of European Council on Tourism and Trade, to present the WORLD BEST TOURIST DESTINATION AWARD in Harare, in person, to His Excellency President of REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE –ROBERT GABRIEL MUGABE the most outstanding personality of today Africa.

Awarding the highest world tourism prize of European Council on Tourism and Trade, accepting the invitation for a working visit of high-ranking members of European Council on Tourism and Trade in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE, are all momentous and felicitous occasions that are offering the symbol of admiration that all tourism experts are having for the potential and future of tourism in REPUBLIC OF ZIMBABWE concluded at the end of the meeting Professor Anton Caragea, President of European Council on Tourism and Trade.

Professor Dr. Anton Caragea-President of European Council on Tourism and Trade has a photo taken with the participants.