HARARE – President Emmerson Mnangagwa has applauded women in leadership and politics for their outstanding contribution to Zimbabwe’s development, describing the new generation of female leaders as a force that is shaping the country’s future.

Speaking at the 2026 Recognition of Top Women Leadership Awards held at State House in Harare on Friday, President Mnangagwa said women continue to play a pivotal role across various sectors of the economy and governance.

“There is equally a new breed of female political leaders in my Administration, in the mould of the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Honourable Barbara Rwodzi. Her stewardship over the tourism sector has helped to reposition ‘Brand Zimbabwe’ and elevate the sector as one of the key drivers of economic growth and sustainable development,” he said.

The President highlighted Minister Rwodzi’s efforts in transforming Zimbabwe’s tourism industry, noting significant growth in both international arrivals and tourism revenue.

Minister Barbara Rwodzi was appointed Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry in 2023, having previously served as Deputy Minister of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry since December 2021.

“In the first quarter of 2026, international tourist arrivals increased by 11 percent to more than 384,000 visitors, while tourism receipts grew by 14 percent to approximately US$251 million. Domestic tourism is also recording remarkable growth, while tourism investment surged by more than 438 percent to nearly US$68 million,” President Mnangagwa said.

The President also paid tribute to several distinguished women who have made significant contributions to the country, including First Lady Dr Auxilia Mnangagwa, Defence Minister Hon. Oppah Chamu Zvipange Muchinguri-Kashiri, and Zimbabwe Electoral Commission Chairperson Justice Priscilla Chigumba, among others.

Speaking on Hon. Muchinguri-Kashiri, President Mnangagwa praised her dedication and service dating back to the liberation struggle.

“In the political arena, we have many women who participated in the armed liberation struggle for independence and freedom. They remained brave, steadfast and committed despite the perilous conditions and brutality of the racist Smith regime. These include Mai Oppah Chamu Zvipange Muchinguri-Kashiri. Under the Second Republic, I saw it fitting to appoint her as the first female National Chairperson of our ruling party, ZANU PF, and Minister of Defence,” he said.

President Mnangagwa also expressed satisfaction with the growing participation and performance of women in Parliament and Cabinet.

According to the Parliament of Zimbabwe, there are currently 120 female parliamentarians in the 10th Parliament, representing 33.3 percent of the country’s bicameral legislature.

“Under the Second Republic, we have more female parliamentarians, some of whom now chair six crucial parliamentary committees. The current Cabinet equally consists of a higher number of female ministers. I am pleased that, so far, they are exhibiting commendable competence, professionalism and a strong work ethic,” he said.

The awards ceremony celebrated women whose leadership, dedication and achievements continue to contribute to Zimbabwe’s national development and the attainment of Vision 2030.