For a country which has existed in isolation for over a decade, even the smallest positive publicity should be celebrated. However the timing of the award – which comes on the back of Zimbabwe’s intention to tone down its indigenisation law – suggests that it might be intended as a carrot to encourage further reforms.
Zimbabwe no doubt has some magnificent tourist resorts – Matopos, Vumba, Nyanga, Chinhoyi Caves, Kariba, Hwange National Park and the majestic Victoria Falls – but to label a country with poor roads and hazardous drinking water ‘best tourism destination’ is a rather generous assessment. If this indeed is an EU olive branch, one would hope, for the good of the country, Mugabe reciprocates the conciliatory gesture.