Zimbabwe Tourism Minister Apologises After SA Tourist’s US$30 Fine Sparks Outcry

Zimbabwe’s Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Barbara Rwodzi, has personally apologised to a South African tourist who was fined US$30 at a police roadblock in Chipinge, following a viral social media video that triggered widespread public reaction.

The incident occurred on February 7, 2026, when the tourist — who identified himself as part of Trans Africa Self Drive Adventures — was stopped while towing a trailer. He was fined for allegedly failing to carry the required number of emergency warning triangles.

In a video posted online, the tourist said police officers penalised him for having three warning triangles instead of four — a requirement he claimed he had never encountered despite making multiple trips to Zimbabwe over the years.

“I was shocked,” he said in the video. “I have been coming into Zimbabwe for years and no one has ever told me that I need four. This kind of treatment is not good for tourism.”

He further alleged corruption and warned that such incidents risk damaging Zimbabwe’s image as a travel destination. The footage quickly gained traction on social media, drawing thousands of views and comments within hours.

Following the backlash, Minister Rwodzi reportedly contacted the tourist by phone on the same day to apologise. In a follow-up video, the tourist confirmed the call.

“The Minister called me herself and apologised,” he said. “She assured me that action would be taken against the officers involved.”

On February 8, Rwodzi met the tourist in person, a move government officials described as swift intervention to safeguard the country’s tourism reputation.

Permanent Secretary for Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Ndavaning Mangwana, said the Government expects all public officials to act in a manner that upholds Zimbabwe’s international standing.

“Zimbabwe places paramount importance on its image,” Mangwana said. “All officials, including those manning roadblocks, are expected to act accordingly.”

Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) confirmed that an internal investigation has been launched. Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the organisation does not tolerate unprofessional conduct.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has noted with concern the social media incident involving police officers in Chipinge and does not condone unprofessional conduct by members,” Nyathi said.

“The Police Command is therefore taking action with a view to continuously giving the public quality service and diligently adhere to policing values and courtesy as outlined in the Zimbabwe Republic Police Client Service Charter.”

Nyathi added that the police commend the tourist for bringing the matter to their attention.

The case has reignited debate over roadblock enforcement practices and their potential impact on Zimbabwe’s tourism sector.