Manyaya appointed new ZTA CEO

Dr George Munyaradzi Manyaya has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA).

The incoming CEO has extensive background in stakeholder relations, corporate communications, and strategic leadership, Manyaya is uniquely equipped to guide the ZTA towards greater competitiveness in the ever-evolving global tourism landscape.

His career spans both the private and public sectors, offering a wealth of experience that is particularly valuable for driving the tourism sector’s recovery and long-term development.

Manyaya first made a name for himself as PR Manager at Mbada Diamonds, where he honed his skills in managing public perception, protecting brand reputation, and engaging with diverse audiences. In the tourism industry, storytelling plays a crucial role in showcasing Zimbabwe’s world-renowned attractions, from Victoria Falls to the Great Zimbabwe Monument.

Upon leaving  Mbada Diamonds, Manyaya took on pivotal roles in stakeholder relations at NetOne and ZESA Holdings, two of Zimbabwe’s most important telecommunications and energy companies.

In these positions, he was responsible for building and maintaining relationships with key government officials, business leaders, regulators, and community stakeholders. This background in multi-stakeholder engagement is especially relevant to the tourism sector, where coordinated efforts are essential to creating seamless, high-quality tourist experiences.

Moreover, Manyaya’s governance experience as a board member for both NetOne and the Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) enhances his qualifications for leading the ZTA.

While Zimbabwe’s tourism sector holds immense potential, challenges remain. The country faces stiff competition from other African destinations, marketing gaps, infrastructure limitations, and the need for a robust post-pandemic recovery strategy. As the new CEO, Manyaya has the opportunity to tackle these challenges head-on and chart a bold path forward for the tourism sector.

Manyaya is the holder of a Doctorate in Business Administration from the Binary University (Malasyia) in collaboration with the Chinhoyi University of Technology. Manyaya holds a Master of Science Degree in International Relations from the University of Zimbabwe, a Masters of Commerce Degree in Strategic Management and Corporate Governance from Midlands State University and several other qualifications.