ZTA cracks down on unregistered tourism facilities

STAFF WRITER

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has launched a nationwide crackdown on unregistered tourism facilities, shutting down dozens of operators as part of a sweeping campaign to formalise the sector and enforce regulatory compliance, Business Times can report.

The blitz has already resulted in the closure of several facilities across the country, including three in Masvingo, nine in Gweru, five in Marondera, three in Bulawayo, one in Chinhoyi, four in Mutare and three in Harare. In the capital, four additional unregistered operators also faced closure.

ZTA chief executive officer, Dr George Manyaya, said the exercise is aimed at restoring order in the tourism industry and ensuring all players operate within the confines of the law.

“The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has initiated a nationwide campaign aimed at identifying and shuttering unregistered tourism facilities across the country. This decisive move comes as part of the government’s effort to regularise the tourism industry and ensure compliance with national regulations,” he said.

The clampdown follows a government decision to slash business licence fees to make compliance more affordable and improve ease of doing business in the sector. ZTA licence fees are now capped at US$150 per year for restaurants and US$100 annually for fast-food outlets.

“In a bid to facilitate compliance, the Zimbabwean government has reduced licence and registration fees, promoting ease of doing business within the sector. Many tourism operators have responded positively to this initiative, leading to a notable number of registrations and payments of licence fees in recent weeks,” Dr Manyaya said.

Operators were formally notified that failure to regularise their operations would result in closure. The compliance deadline expired on February 28, 2026.

“The ZTA’s latest directive mandates all operators, including Airbnbs and other short-term rental facilities, to register for licences. Non-compliance with this notice will lead to the closure of their establishments, marking a strict stance on unauthorised operations. This development reflects the ZTA’s commitment to maintaining a regulated and safe tourism environment for both visitors and locals,” he said.

Dr Manyaya also urged members of the public and industry stakeholders to report unregistered facilities, saying whistleblower participation is critical to safeguarding the integrity of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry.

“To further encourage compliance, the ZTA is actively inviting whistleblowers to report unregistered facilities. This initiative aims to create a collaborative environment where stakeholders can contribute to the integrity of Zimbabwe’s tourism landscape.

“As the ZTA continues this blitz, its efforts not only aim to enhance compliance but also to bolster the overall reputation of Zimbabwe as a premier travel destination. With widespread cooperation from operators, the Zimbabwe tourism sector can thrive, offering safe and legally registered facilities that cater to the needs of tourists from around the globe,” he said.

The enforcement drive signals a tougher regulatory stance as authorities seek to tighten oversight, protect consumers and ensure fair competition within the fast-evolving tourism and hospitality sector.