Australian and United States’ consuls have met tour operators in Hwange and Victoria Falls to reaffirm their countries’ renewed support for Zimbabwe as a safe destination.

The US leads the arrivals pack in Victoria Falls and Hwange, commanding 35 percent while Australia is third after Japan. Australia and the US have an influence on other countries’ travellers as they have the world’s travel agents who literally control tourism.

The Australian Embassy was represented by Ms Cathy Jenkins while the US was represented by Ms Amy Diaz in a meeting which discussed a number of issues including security, health and fuel shortages.

Coming out of a recent closed-door meeting in Victoria Falls, tour operator representatives said the consular officials had given Victoria Falls and Hwange destinations clearance, adding that the destination had not been hit by cholera, which is currently affecting the country. Chronicle paper said

“We are happy to meet the consuls with whom we have had collaboration for many years as this reaffirms their commitment to support our tourism and keep abreast with what is happening,” said Ms Yvonne Jandles, representing operators.

She said information about what was happening on the ground was crucial as opposed to social media reports that discredit destinations. Victoria Falls has experienced more arrivals this year.

“They met operators in Hwange as well and have given a commitment that they are very confident because of what’s been happening in Victoria Falls. The destination is booming at the moment as we are at our peak and it looks like it will continue, said Ms Jandles.

Tourism Business Council of Zimbabwe regional representative Mrs Barbara Murasiranwa said meeting the two embassies put a seal that Zimbabwe is a safe destination.

“This is encouraging as they will add us to their itineraries even if they are not coming to Zimbabwe. We want them to collaborate and send out word that Zimbabwe is a safe destination and encourage their citizens to visit,” he said.