KAZA TFCA Steps Up for large-scale elephant survey

In a historic milestone, and through an impressive collaboration between government and  private sector, in continued efforts to achieve the 2030 sustainable development goals of 2030, the Ministry of Environment, Climate, Tourism and Hospitality Industry, together with Zimbabwe National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Vic Falls City Council, and Airports Company of Zimbabwe, and partnered with Mobi-Tech have today launched Braille for Tourism in Victoria Falls.

The first phase of the programme saw Braille signage implemented and unveiled today within Victoria Falls Airport and the Victoria Falls Rain Forest, with additional signage to be installed across the City Centre in coming weeks, making Victoria Falls the first inclusive destination in Zimbabwe and Africa, catering for visually impaired members of society locally and globally.

Speaking at the launch event, the Honorable Minister Ndlovu confirmed that the programme is part of continued efforts to demonstrate why Zimbabwe is a destination of choice, "it is important that public and commercial spaces become safe and inclusive spaces  for those with disabilities, prioritising those who have previously been on the margins. Braille for Tourism is a means to afford equal rights for all to enjoy our exceptional tourism product."

In 2021, spear-headed by Enock Mawema and the Mobi-Tech team, the first Braille rails was installed at The Lookout Cafe as a pilot project and was was start of the dream to create a more inclusive space in the tourism sector across the country.

Both National Parks and Airports Company of Zimbabwe confirmed that today was the start and first phase of the Braille for Tourism Programme and that efforts are underway to include signage to other national parks and airports across the country in the next five years.

Thanks go to the private sector players who have supported the launch in Victoria Falls including Wild Horizons, Shearwater, Elephant Hills Resort, Africa Albida Tourism amongst others.

And special thanks go to MECTHI, National Parks and Wildlife Management Authority, Vic Falls City Council, Airports Company of Zimbabwe, ZTA and the Mobi-Tech and Braille for Africa team for making Victoria Falls the first inclusive destination in Africa.