HARARE – The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has warned unlicensed tourism operators that they face closure if they fail to regularise their operations ahead of a nationwide compliance crackdown set to begin on March 1.

In a statement on Friday, the agency tasked with promoting tourism in Zimbabwe said hotels, lodges, AirBnB operators, travel agencies, food outlets and other tourism-related businesses must ensure they are properly licensed and registered.

“All unregistered tourism facilities have until February 28 to regularise their operations. Thereafter, a nationwide enforcement blitz will commence from March 1, conducted jointly with law enforcement agencies, targeting and shutting down illegal operations,” the ZTA said.

The authority said it expects improved compliance following a cabinet decision to slash licensing and registration fees.

“The ZTA has effected a cabinet resolution slashing all tourism licensing and registration fees by 50 percent and removing cost barriers. It is our expectation now that operators will formalise their businesses,” the statement said.

According to the regulator, the rapid growth of unregistered lodges, short-term rental properties and food outlets has undermined industry standards, compromised safety and security, and created unfair competition for compliant operators.

“This will enhance fairness, security and protect the brand of Destination Zimbabwe. Law-abiding operators cannot continue to compete with illegal businesses that evade compliance costs and quality standards,” ZTA said.

The compliance push comes as the ZTA board recently appointed George Manyaya as its new chief executive officer, with a mandate to strengthen regulation, enhance compliance and restore order within the tourism sector.