Tourism: a means to an end in Zimbabwe's development?

In addition to being able to reduce the reliance of the rural sector on agriculture, the argument in favour of encouraging the further development of the tourism industry is strong: because of its capacity to form linkages it has the ability to spread development more evenly than many other forms of industry are able to do. Another reason for promoting tourism as an economic development tool is that many of the attractions needed for the industry are located in the rural areas and the diverse backward linkages associated with tourism can extend its benefits beyond the direct providers of goods and services to tourists (Schroenn, 1997).

A conference paper exploring the possibilities of tourism's abilities to boost and uplift Zimbabwe's economic strength. Originally prepared for: "Conference on Zimbabwe: macroeconomic policy, management and performance since independence: lessons for the 21st century," 19-21 August, Sheraton Hotel, Harare.