Zimbabwe Celebrates New Tourism Milestone with Launch of Shearwater Helicopter Launch Pad in Victoria Falls

VICTORIA FALLS, In a landmark event that underscores Zimbabwe’s growing stature as a global tourism leader, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Barbara Rwodzi, delivered a powerful vote of thanks at the official launch of the Shearwater Helicopter Launch Pad in Victoria Falls.

The ceremony, attended by senior government officials, industry leaders, and local stakeholders, highlighted the project as a symbol of innovation and public-private collaboration at a time when Zimbabwe has been named the World’s Best Destination for 2025.

“This development is yet another milestone in Shearwater’s proud legacy of innovation, excellence, and leadership in the tourism sector,” said Minister Rwodzi. “It demonstrates the confidence and determination that continue to drive Zimbabwe’s tourism renaissance.”

The minister emphasized the critical role tourism plays in the national economy, noting that the sector contributes 15% to Zimbabwe’s GDP growth. She also highlighted the symbiotic relationship between transport and tourism, praising the Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development, under Hon. Felix Mhona, for its “invaluable support in advancing aviation and infrastructure.”

In a significant announcement, Minister Rwodzi revealed that the government is currently reviewing tourism-related licensing fees to reduce the cost of doing business. She called on the industry to reciprocate by lowering prices for activities, accommodation, and transport, making Zimbabwe more accessible to local and international visitors.

Special recognition was given to the Shearwater development team, Allen and Toni Anne Roberts, for their “tireless innovation,” as well as to Captain Elizabeth Vavashe—Zimbabwe’s first female helicopter pilot and instructor—who leads a team of eight pilots under Zimbabwe Helicopter Company (ZHC).

Looking ahead, the Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Shearwater’s expansion into Hwange and other destinations. A key goal is to see the ZHC facility become the first designated international heliport on the African continent, positioning Zimbabwe as a premier aviation and tourism hub.

The event concluded with a vote of thanks to the engineers, pilots, investors, and the entire Shearwater team, whom the minister credited for transforming Victoria Falls “not just a wonder of nature, but a beacon of innovation, resilience, and Zimbabwean excellence.”