Zimbabwe: Autonomous Fund to Boost Tourism Growth The Zimbabwean government has established an autonomous fund aimed at stimulating the growth and development of the country’s tourism industry. Dubbed the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Fund (ZTAF), the initiative seeks to address infrastructure deficits, enhance marketing efforts, and provide financial support to tourism operators. Infrastructure Development The ZTAF will prioritize the improvement of critical infrastructure that supports tourism activities. This includes upgrading roads, constructing or refurbishing airports, and modernizing accommodation facilities. By enhancing accessibility and convenience within tourist destinations, the fund aims to increase visitor numbers and improve the overall tourist experience. Marketing and Promotion The fund will allocate significant resources to promoting Zimbabwe as a desirable tourist destination. This includes participating in international tourism trade shows, developing targeted marketing campaigns, and leveraging social media platforms. The objective is to increase awareness of Zimbabwe’s attractions and appeal to a wider audience. Financial Support for Tourism Operators The ZTAF will provide financial assistance to tourism businesses, including small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). This support could come in the form of grants, concessionary loans, or equity investments. By empowering tourism operators, the fund aims to increase their capacity, improve service quality, and create more jobs within the industry. Specific Projects The fund will initially focus on specific projects that have the potential to transform the tourism sector. These include: * Development of new tourism circuits, linking major destinations * Construction of a state-of-the-art convention center in Harare * Investment in eco-tourism infrastructure in national parks * Upgrading of tourist attractions, such as the Victoria Falls and Great Zimbabwe Expected Impact The establishment of the ZTAF is expected to have a significant impact on Zimbabwe’s tourism industry. By addressing infrastructure constraints, enhancing marketing efforts, and providing financial support, the fund aims to: * Increase tourist arrivals and foreign exchange earnings * Create new jobs and economic growth * Enhance the competitiveness of Zimbabwe’s tourism industry in the global market * Preserve and promote Zimbabwe’s natural and cultural heritage The ZTAF represents a bold initiative by the Zimbabwean government to unlock the potential of its tourism sector. By providing targeted support to key areas, the fund aims to transform the industry into a major driver of economic development and national pride..

Triple M’s Marty Sheargold has made the decision to leave his breakfast show in Melbourne, prioritizing self-care and a better work-life balance.

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Triple M’s Marty Sheargold has made the decision to leave his breakfast show in Melbourne, prioritizing self-care and a better work-life balance.

Sheargold’s show had been on air for three and a half years, but he took a three-month break in October 2022. He will continue to host his podcast and a national show on Triple M.

SCA, the owner of Triple M, thanked Sheargold for his contributions and said a new presenter for the Melbourne breakfast show would be announced soon.

Sheargold’s departure is part of a series of changes to Melbourne’s breakfast radio lineup, including the replacement of KIIS FM’s Jase & Lauren with the Sydney-based Kyle and Jackie O show and the launch of Nova’s national breakfast show with Ben, Liam, and Belle. .

Zimbabwe is set to establish an autonomous fund to drive the growth of the tourism sector, which is a key pillar of the country’s economy. The fund, known as the Tourism Development Fund, will be capitalized with an initial $10 million and will be administered by the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA). The ZTA will be responsible for managing the fund and disbursing loans and grants to tourism businesses and projects. The fund will provide much-needed financial support to the tourism sector, which has been struggling in recent years due to economic instability and the COVID-19 pandemic. The establishment of the fund is a key part of the government’s National Tourism Recovery and Growth Strategy, which aims to revive the sector and make it a major contributor to the economy. The fund will provide loans and grants to tourism businesses and projects, including those involved in accommodation, transportation, tour operations, and hospitality. The fund is expected to boost investment in the tourism sector, create jobs, and generate revenue for the government. The ZTA is currently working on finalizing the regulations for the fund, which is expected to be operational by the end of the year.