All Africa reports that more than 65 per cent of the eligible population in Victoria Falls have been vaccinated against the coronavirus in less than a week. This is as Zimbabwe’s top tourist destination strives to become safe.

Victoria Falls vaccination program against the virus was rolled out on March 22, and by March 29 over 17 000 of its 26 000 adults, aged 18 to 80, had received the first dose of the Sinopharm vaccine.

Africa Albida Tourism chief executive, Ross Kennedy, said the Covid-19 related travel cancellations had been the single greatest challenge that Victoria Falls has faced. Kennedy said, “Victoria Falls and the wider community in the destination, along with the Ministry of Health and Child Care and Government have faced the pandemic, come together incredibly well and it may well be the very first city in the world to have the majority of its residents vaccinated.” He added, “As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a gateway to the iconic KAZA (Kavango-Zambezi Transfrontier Conservation Area) tourism region, this is a major campaign.” Kennedy said that the powerful positive message Victoria Falls vaccination drive sent to both the travel trade and potential tourists should not be underestimated.

Meanwhile, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Health and Child Care, Constantino Chiwenga said the campaign would allow for unlimited tourism activity in Victoria Falls to resume.

All Africa reports that airlines from around the globe are either already flying into Victoria Falls, or about to resume flights to Victoria Falls, improving access to one of the Seven Wonders of the World.

Umm Muhammed Umar