Mnangagwa Gifts Barbara Rwodzi Ford Ranger Raptor After African Award Win

By Simba Zimunya

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has presented Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister Barbara Rwodzi with a Ford Ranger Raptor in recognition of her being named the 2026 Unstoppable African Cabinet Minister of the Year.

The vehicle was presented at State House on Friday, November 13, following Rwodzi's recognition at the inaugural Unstoppable African Awards held in Nairobi, Kenya, on October 31.

In announcing the gift, President Mnangagwa described it as a token of appreciation for the minister's contribution to promoting Zimbabwe and its tourism sector internationally.

The President said the award, secured through a continent-wide and global public voting process, represented a proud moment for the country and reflected its growing international profile.

Rwodzi Expresses Gratitude

Speaking after receiving the vehicle, Rwodzi expressed gratitude to the President and First Lady Dr Auxillia Mnangagwa, describing the gesture as an unexpected honour.

She said the award was not solely an individual achievement but also recognised the work of her ministry and the wider tourism sector.

The minister also acknowledged those who voted for her, including supporters from Zimbabwe and beyond, as well as people from her Chirumanzu constituency.

Zimbabwean Minister Wins Continental Recognition

Rwodzi emerged as the overall winner in the Cabinet Minister of the Year category at the inaugural Unstoppable African Awards.

Kenya's Minister of Public Service, Geoffrey Ruku, was named first runner-up, while Kenya's Minister of East African Affairs, Beatrice Askul, came second. Uganda's Minister of Local Government, Balaam Barugahara Ateenyi, finished third.

The recognition comes as Zimbabwe continues promoting tourism as a contributor to economic growth, employment creation and investment under its heritage-based tourism development agenda.

Tourism Sector Faces Expectations for Growth

Zimbabwe has been pursuing efforts to diversify its tourism products, attract international visitors and expand opportunities in cultural, heritage, wildlife and conference tourism.

The award has brought renewed attention to the country's tourism leadership. However, the broader measure of progress will remain the sector's performance in attracting visitors, generating revenue, creating jobs and supporting businesses.

Rwodzi's recognition and the President's presentation of the vehicle have added to the country's recent tourism-related developments, with the ministry expected to continue advancing initiatives aimed at strengthening Zimbabwe's position as a regional and international destination.