Zimbabwe-based travel and tourism offices say business is continuing as normal in the country, despite the military operations that began early yesterday morning (November 15).
Robin Brown, Director of destination management company Cansaf and Founder of news site victoriafalls24.com, says the situation on the ground both in Harare and in the entire country is peaceful and people are going on about their lives as usual. “We have received reliable reports that all scheduled flights in Harare, Victoria Falls and Bulawayo are running as per usual and all other border posts are open. This is highly unlikely to change,” he added.
Indications in the short and medium term point towards the incidents of yesterday having very little effect on the practical day-to-day running of the country, Brown continued. “Zimbabweans have been reassured that there is no threat to the people of the country and no threat to tourists visiting the country. We have not at this time heard of any travellers cancelling or reducing their stay in the country,” Brown said.
Ross Kennedy, CEO of Africa Albida Tourism, says Victoria Falls has not been affected by the military action. “Access to and from Victoria Falls continues without a hitch and there is a prevailing sense of calm in the area.”
Military takes over security checks at Harare Airport
Panic hit travellers yesterday as news of the Zimbabwean military taking over the security checks at Harare International Airport began to spread.
Nonetheless, operations at the airport continued to run as normal, although travellers were advised to arrive four hours prior to departure.
Countries still advising against travel to Zim
Despite increasing reports that Zimbabwe is relatively calm at present, travel advisories have been sent out by various nations advising against travel to the country.
Botswana is the latest to urge its residents to steer clear. “In light of the recent developments, the Ministry of International Affairs and Cooperation advises Batswana to avoid travelling to Zimbabwe until further notice,” the Botswana Government said in a statement.
UK, US and Dutch authorities have also urged their citizens to avoid travel to the country, and those currently in Zimbabwe are urged to stay indoors.
South Africans visiting Zimbabwe are advised to continue to operate as normal, but keep in contact with the South African Embassy in Zimbabwe until further notice.
