Dr. Walter Mzembi is the VP for international relations of the World Tourism Network
Harare, Zimbabwe: Dr. Walter Mzembi is widely recognized as one of Africa’s most influential tourism leaders, having dedicated much of his career to advancing tourism as a driver of economic growth, international cooperation, cultural understanding, and sustainable development. As Zimbabwe’s Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry from 2009 to 2017, he became a respected global figure whose influence extended far beyond his home country.
During his tenure, Dr. Mzembi played a pivotal role in revitalizing Zimbabwe’s tourism sector and repositioning the country on the international stage. Under his leadership, tourism grew into one of Zimbabwe’s leading economic sectors, attracting investment, generating employment, and contributing significantly to national GDP. International observers credited him with helping transform Zimbabwe’s image from a destination facing challenges into one recognized for its tourism potential and cultural heritage.
One of his most notable achievements was spearheading the successful bid for Zimbabwe and Zambia to jointly host the 20th United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly in Victoria Falls in 2013. The event was praised by then-UNWTO Secretary-General Dr. Taleb Rifai as arguably the best-attended General Assembly in the organization’s history, showcasing Southern Africa’s ability to host major international events and demonstrating the power of tourism diplomacy.
Dr. Mzembi’s leadership was equally influential at the continental and global levels. As Chairperson of the UNWTO Commission for Africa and a member of the UNWTO Executive Council, he consistently advocated for stronger African representation in global tourism governance, greater inclusivity, open borders, visa facilitation, and tourism as a force for peace and development. His vision emphasized tourism’s ability to foster dialogue between nations and cultures while creating economic opportunities for communities.
In 2017, he became the African Union’s unanimous candidate for Secretary-General of the UNWTO, receiving endorsement from African heads of state and broad support across the continent. His candidacy was built on a platform of inclusivity, institutional reform, equitable growth, and strengthening tourism’s role within the United Nations system. African diplomats praised his experience, eloquence, diplomatic skills, and clear vision for the future of global tourism.
Beyond government service, Dr. Mzembi has remained an active voice in international tourism, cultural diplomacy, and global affairs. He has served in leadership roles with international tourism organizations and has been recognized as a tourism thought leader, speaker, and advocate for Africa’s growing role in the global travel economy. He has frequently promoted the concept of “citizen diplomacy,” encouraging tourism as a pathway to mutual understanding, peace, and international cooperation.
Dr. Mzembi serves as the President of the Africa Chapter for the Berlin-based Institute for Cultural Diplomacy (ICD). Through his work at the ICD in Germany, he promotes soft-power diplomacy, regional integration, and sustainable development across the African continent.
In recent years, international tourism leaders and industry observers have welcomed Dr. Mzembi’s re-emergence on the global stage, viewing his experience, strategic vision, and commitment to tourism development as valuable contributions to ongoing discussions about the future of international tourism. His supporters often describe him as a “Tourism Hero” whose legacy includes strengthening Africa’s voice in global tourism and demonstrating how tourism can serve as a catalyst for economic transformation and international engagement.
Today, Dr. Walter Mzembi remains regarded by many across the tourism industry as a visionary leader, skilled diplomat, and passionate advocate for using tourism as a bridge between nations, cultures, and people around the world.
Walter Mzembi is a practicing Christian and a devoted Catholic.
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