HAZ calls for adoption of technology in tourism

‘Nyika

PLAYERS in the tourism and hospitality industry have been urged to adopt the latest technological advancements through the use of Artificial Intelligence to broaden their investments opportunities.

Artificial Intelligence is the ability of a digital computer or computer-controlled robot to perform tasks commonly associated with intelligent beings.

Among other things, artificial intelligence can automate repetitive tasks, as well as improve efficiency and productivity in various sectors.

Addressing delegates during this year’s Hospitality Association of Zimbabwe (HAZ) national congress at Montclair Hotel and Casino in Juliasdale yesterday (Thursday), HAZ president, Mr Farai Chimba said: “We are looking at investment in excellence in the tourism sector. Standards in the tourism and hospitality sector should always move with the latest technology and trends.

“It is important to integrate and emphasize the role of key stakeholders in tourism investments, including banks. This is a pertinent gathering where we discuss about how we can better the industry, which is a low hanging fruit,” said Mr Chimba, who is also Victoria Falls Hotel general manager.

The HAZ congress is being held under the theme ‘Harnessing investment for hospitality and tourism excellence.’

Topics up for discussion during the three-day congress include investment opportunities, the role of banks in investment, technology hospitality investment opportunities, investment for excellence, standards and human capital development.

HAZ Manicaland president, Mr Adonis Mutigwe said: “It is of key importance to also upgrade our people, including the guests , international and domestic tourists, to latest trends. We also need to look at how we can improve the sector and achieve the US$5 billion tourism economy target by 2025.

“The Eastern Highlands or Manicaland Province in general is also part of the agenda as we critically deliberate on how we can capitalise on its abundant resources and significantly contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product.”

Zimbabwe Tourism Authority chief executive, Ms Winnie Muchanyuka said the tourism and hospitality industry has made tremendous strides as inflows of international and regional tourists are improving.

Ms Muchanyuka went on to call on hoteliers to continue being innovative.

Participants drawn from across the country’s tourism and accommodation facilities who are attending the congress will also take the opportunity to tour scenic and majestic sites in the Eastern Highlands, including Mutarazi Falls, Nyangombe Falls, World’s View, Rhodes Hotel, Troutbeck Inn Resort, Vumba, Nyanga Mountain and Nyanga Natural Pools, among other places.

HAZ represents the interests of owners and operators of hotels, restaurants, clubs and related establishments across the country.

Last year’s HAZ congress was held in Victoria Falls with more than 300 hospitality players from across the country gathering to deliberate on the state of the tourism sector.Manicaland Province last hosted congress four years ago in Mutare and 400 tourism players from across the country attended