By Nigel Pfunde
Judas kiss? : Twelve guests left stranded at Harare lodge as ZTA ‘new broom’ sweeps out unregistered facilties amidst a nationwide crackdown
HARARE– The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has intensified its nationwide compliance blitz, leading to the closure of numerous unregistered tourism facilities across the country.
The operation which is aimed at regularizing the sector and enforcing minimum standard on Tuesday resulted in at least twelve guests being reportedly stranded at a popular Harare lodge (name witheld) during lunchtime after authorities moved in to shut down the facility.
The incident in Harare reportedly left a few socialites netted in after a ‘Judas Kiss’ that affected the unsuspecting 12 ‘disciples’ from citizens who heeded the call for cooperation in the crackdown.
The operation targets lodges, guest houses, Airbnb and other shortterm rental properties operating without proper licenses.
Officials noted that guests were reportedly locked inside the premises before intervention for safety concerns and potential reputational damage to Zimbabwe’s tourism brand.
Today’s operation alone saw multiple establishments closed in with three in Masvingo, nine in Gweru, five in Marondera, three in Bulawayo, one in Chinhoyi, four in Mutare, and seven in Harare (including the four additional unregistered operators).
The ZTA has mandated that all tourism operators register and obtain necessary licenses, warning of immediate closure for non-compliance.
In an effort to encourage adherence, the government has reduced license and registration fees, a move that has reportedly led to a noticeable increase in registrations
. The ZTA is also engaging the public and industry stakeholders, inviting them to report unregistered facilities to promote accountability
“We applaud the move by the ZTA is most welcome. . The ongoing blitz is ensuring that all tourism establishments meet required standards, fostering a safer and more competitive environment,” said an industry expert who preffered anonymity
Touriam gurua said ZTA aim is to strengthen Zimbabwe’s position as a credible and regulated tourism destination.
