I’m By Staff Reporter
HARARE — Dr George Manyaya has been appointed as the new chief executive officer (CEO) of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).
His appointment will take effect from February 1, 2026, ending a vacancy that had lasted for nearly two years.
Manyaya’s professional career spans extensive stakeholder relations, corporate communications, and strategic leadership.
ZTA, in a statement announcing Manyaya’s appointment, said the new CEO brings strong academic credentials, strategic leadership capacity, and extensive multisectoral experience.
“He holds a Doctorate in Business Management, a Master of Science in International Relations degree, a Master’s degree in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance, and a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management.
“Furthermore, he has professional qualifications in Mass Communication, Diplomacy, and Regulation,” the statement read.
ZTA said Manyaya has served across key tourism-enabling sectors, giving him broad exposure relevant to the authority’s mandate.
“He has served across key tourism-enabling sectors, including aviation, transport, telecommunications, energy, mining, banking, and the United Nations system (IOM), gaining deep insight into tourism development, infrastructure, investment, and stakeholder coordination,” the statement said.
A recognised marketing and communications strategist, Manyaya joins ZTA from ZESA Holdings, where he was general manager responsible for marketing communications and stakeholder relations.
The statement further highlighted his boardroom experience and leadership roles.
“He serves and has previously served on several boards in both the public and private sectors.
“He is also chairman of ZINARA, where he has led successful rebranding, governance, and modernisation initiatives,” ZTA said.
Manyaya was also appointed a Tourism Brand Ambassador and served on the organising committee of the 2013 United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly, which was successfully co-hosted by Zimbabwe and Zambia.
According to ZTA, Manyaya’s mandate includes positioning Zimbabwe as a competitive tourism destination, driving tourism development, enforcing industry standards, generating tourism intelligence, coordinating stakeholders, and facilitating sustainable investment to support national economic growth.
