Can we consider Mzembi in our exploits?

EDITOR — The AU recently endorsed Minister Walter Mzembi as the candidate for the UNWTO Secretary General post, which has not been held by an African in a very long time.

This is a golden opportunity for African countries and Zimbabwe to be substantially represented on global tourism discussions with an equal if not domineering voice.

Ironically the only people in the continent who seem to be against the nomination are some Zimbabweans.

In the run up to the election, Zimbabweans are embarking on a wave of hapless protests led by cunning civil society leaders who provoke the police with a view to playing the victim card. The contrived scenes of unrest being shown on the international media can potentially work against Minister Mzembi’s bid. Peace is one of the key drawcards for tourism. Well, in case that some have not been following the trends in the economy, the tourism sector is one of the few sectors which have withstood the turbulent economic times we find ourselves in. Now that the Minister is trying to strategically position himself to add more value to the already performing industry, some choose to engage in randomised protests. Are we not becoming our own enemies?

Imperialist countries envy our natural landmarks and will do anything to try and discredit Zimbabwe in the eyes of prospective tourists. This is why amplified reportage on the so-called Zimbabwean turmoil is topping the agenda of most of their media entities. Unfortunately, some local journalists and social media users are contributing to their sinister exploits, playing the devil`s advocate.

Now, if the tourism sector takes a knock our brothers and sisters working there are going to find themselves out of jobs. This will be an opportunity for hashtag activists to lament the loss of jobs, ignoring the self destructive role they played in weakening the industry.

Let us not be ouw own saboteurs. These ill-advised gatherings are in direct contradiction to Minister Mzembi and the Government`s efforts to keep the tourism industry afloat. Jerry Ncube, Bulawayo