ZTA Shuts Down Over 25 Unregistered Lodges, Restaurants

The Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) has shut down over 25 unregistered tourism facilities for failing to meet licensing requirements.

The blitz, launched on Tuesday, 3 March, is part of the government’s wider push to get the tourism sector properly regulated.

The crackdown covers a range of businesses, including hotels, lodges, Airbnb operators, travel agencies, and food outlets.

All tourism-related enterprises are required to be fully licensed and registered to operate legally.

ZTA CEO George Manyaya said the enforcement drive highlights the authority’s commitment to keeping the tourism industry safe and well-regulated for both visitors and locals. Said Manyaya:

“In a bid to facilitate compliance, the government has reduced licence and registration fees, promoting the ease of doing business within the sector.

“Many tourism operators have responded positively, with a notable increase in registrations and licence fee payments in recent weeks.

“Unfortunately, the ZTA has had to conduct closures at several locations due to non-compliance.”

Facilities closed cover multiple locations across the country, with Gweru recording the highest number at nine, followed by Marondera with five, Mutare with four, and Masvingo, Bulawayo, and Harare each with three. Chinhoyi had one closure.

Annual ZTA licence fees are set at $150 for restaurants and $100 for fast food outlets.

The ZTA said that it remains committed to working with industry stakeholders to maintain the integrity of Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.

Some of the closed facilities in Mashonaland East include Delfa Takeaway, B24, Pagomo Lodges, 2019 Lodges, and Zim Nhaka Restaurant.

In Bulawayo, Nyamalicous Restaurant and Rooftop Restaurant were shut down, while in Masvingo, Cape to Cairo was closed.

Other closures include Shalom Lodge in Mashonaland West, Mima Restaurant in Mutare, and three restaurants in Harare — Mr Sadza Restaurant, Veruch Restaurant, and Cottage Bites Restaurant.

In the Midlands Province, the ZTA closed Ekhaya Lodge, Al Majid Lodge, Diamond Chicken Restaurant, and Fredos Chicken.

More: ZimLive