The Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry has released an official statement addressing a viral video showing popular travel vlogger Davud Akhundzada being stopped from accessing the Mbuya Nehanda Statue in Harare’s city centre.
According to the Ministry, the incident — which sparked widespread debate on social media — stemmed from Akhundzada’s attempt to enter a section of the site that is classified as a restricted area. The Ministry clarified that the statue and its immediate surroundings are designated as a National Heritage Monument, meaning certain zones are off-limits to the general public for both safety and preservation reasons.
In its statement, the Ministry emphasized that the government welcomes international visitors, influencers, and content creators who help promote Zimbabwe’s tourism image, but urged them to respect national regulations and heritage site protocols. The Ministry further explained that restrictions at the Mbuya Nehanda Monument are in line with UNESCO conservation standards, aimed at protecting historical monuments from damage or unauthorized access.
“We value the role of digital storytellers and travellers who highlight Zimbabwe’s cultural and historical landmarks. However, visitors are encouraged to engage local tourism authorities or site managers for guidance on permissible filming or access zones,” the statement read.
The Ministry reiterated its commitment to promoting Zimbabwe as a safe, hospitable, and culturally rich destination, while ensuring that key monuments such as the Mbuya Nehanda Statue are preserved for future generations.
Meanwhile, Davud Akhundzada’s video has sparked renewed interest in Harare’s cultural landmarks, with many viewers expressing curiosity about the story of Mbuya Nehanda, a revered spiritual leader and symbol of Zimbabwe’s resistance against colonialism.
