The Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) has awarded prestigious star grading certifications to 36 accommodation establishments across the country, ranging from one to five stars. This announcement was made at the second edition of the Star Grading awards ceremony, underscoring the agency’s commitment to enhancing quality and competitiveness within Zambia’s tourism sector.
Speaking at the star grading award ceremony attended by the Zambian Business Times – ZBT, ZTA Board Chairperson, Dan Blink, represented by Andrew Mwiinga, congratulated the recipients and emphasized the significance of the grading system. He stated that the initiative is “more than recognition as it is a reaffirmation of our collective commitment to quality, compliance, and competitiveness.” Mwiinga further highlighted that grading serves as a “strategic tool for building market trust, attracting investment, and global tourism.”
He also disclosed that ZTA has set a target to grade at least 50 accommodation establishments by the end of 2025, driven by increasing awareness of the importance of compliance.
Mwiinga expressed confidence in achieving this goal, noting that “star grading encourages continuous improvement, it motivates establishments to enhance their service and infrastructure further, raising the overall hospitality standard in the country.” He also emphasized the crucial role of a star-graded destination in achieving the national target of 2.2 million international arrivals by 2025, as it encourages longer stays and repeat visits.
ZTA Chief Executive Officer, Matongo Matamwandi, clarified the agency’s dual mandate of marketing Zambia as a tourism destination and regulating standards within the sector. He explained that ensuring consistent standards across all accommodation types is vital for the positive experiences of tourists attracted by their marketing efforts.
The Guest of Honour, Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba, represented by his Permanent Secretary, Evans Muhanga, acknowledged the significant economic contribution of the tourism sector.
He urged all accommodation providers, including internationally branded hotels, to participate in the grading system to ensure a consistent global standard of service.
Muhanga also challenged local brands to strive for excellence and compete effectively with international counterparts, stressing that poor service can significantly hinder the sector’s growth. He affirmed the Ministry’s support for ZTA’s efforts in both marketing and standard regulation.
Muhanga encouraged ungraded establishments to participate in the system, highlighting that “the grading system just gives you the feedback and how you can improve going forward.” He reiterated the importance of increasing the number of graded establishments to 50 by the end of 2025 to showcase the quality of service and excellence within Zambia’s tourism sector. He concluded by emphasizing that grading provides an “official endorsement to the standards and services which opens doors to greater opportunities and enhanced reputation in the market.”
The Zambia Tourism Agency continues to drive its star grading initiative as a key strategy to elevate the country’s hospitality standards, build tourist confidence, and foster sustainable growth within the tourism sector.
Marking 16 years of customer-centric banking innovation, FNB Zambia has launched an exciting new campaign, “Spend, Earn Cashback & Win,” to reward its loyal customers. The initiative will see about 50 948)lucky FNB Visa cardholders win cash prizes and luxury family vacations simply by using their cards for everyday transactions.
Running from April 17 to July 17, 2025, the campaign offers monthly draws for significant cash prizes and culminates in the grand prize draws for two all-expense-paid luxury family vacations to the Lower Zambezi. All FNB Visa card transactions, including tap, swipe, and online purchases, both locally and internationally, qualify for entry.
Speaking at the launch event, Kasali Kaingu, Head of Strategic Marketing and Communications at FNB Zambia, said this milestone is not just about celebrating 16 years of success, it’s about appreciating the customers who’ve been with the bank every step of the way.
“This 16-year milestone is a testament to our valued customers. Our ‘Next is Now’ campaign underscores our commitment to shaping the future of banking through innovation, convenience, and rewarding experiences that prioritize our customers.”
Mwamba Musambo, Head of Retail Banking at FNB Zambia, further emphasized the inclusive nature of the rewards. “We are recognizing everyday spending, from daily lunches to online subscriptions. This campaign is our way of expressing gratitude to our customers for their trust over the past 16 remarkable years.”
The “Spend, Earn Cashback & Win” campaign embodies FNB Zambia’s ongoing dedication to providing value and pushing boundaries for its customer base, rewarding both long-standing and new clients.
Campaign Rewards:
Cashback: Customers will earn cashback on every transaction made with their FNB Visa card.
Monthly Cash Prizes: 16 winners will receive ZMW16,000 each month, totaling 48 cash prize winners throughout the campaign.
Grand Prize Luxury Family Vacations: Two all-expense-paid luxury family trips to the Lower Zambezi for five people each, including chartered flights, accommodation, meals, and activities.
How to Participate:
Use your FNB VISA card for tap, swipe, or online purchases.
Spend ZMW2,000 or more in a calendar month to automatically enter the Monthly Draw (every additional ZMW2,000 spent earns an extra entry).
Spend ZMW5,000 or more in a calendar month to automatically enter the Grand Prize Vacation Draw (international payments of ZMW5,000 or more earn two entries into the grand draw).
No registration or entry fees are required. Customers are automatically entered into the draws by simply using their FNB Visa cards.
To learn more, visit www.fnbzambia.co.zm or follow FNB Zambia on Facebook, Instagram, and X (Twitter) for updates, winner announcements, and campaign details.
BDO Zambia has demonstrated its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) by donating fruit trees to the Zambia Agency for Persons with Disabilities (ZAPD). The donation, consisting of mango, avocado, and citrus trees, was presented at a CSR event held at ZAPD’s Mimosa Farm in Chilanga district of Lusaka province.
Speaking at the donation event, BDO Zambia’s Chief Executive Officer Debbie Nonde, highlighted the symbolic significance of the trees, noting their role in combating climate change, supporting biodiversity, and fostering a sense of community and healing.
Nonde explained that this initiative directly aligns with BDO’s purpose of “Elevating people. Elevating society. Elevating business” and exemplifies their commitment to helping people achieve their dreams for a greener and more inclusive Zambia.
She said this partnership with ZAPD aims to regenerate land and promote long-term food security through the fruit trees.
Speaking after planting the trees, BDO Zambia’s Associate Director Tax, Kafumu Mbewe, emphasized the long-term value of the initiative. “This event signifies more than just a donation; it reflects our commitment to fostering community, sustainability, and shared responsibility,” Mbewe stated.
He further elaborated that BDO’s CSR strategy aims to empower local communities while aligning with national and global sustainability objectives adding that the tree donation directly supports Zambia’s National Green Growth Strategy (2024–2030) and contributes to several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Climate Action, Life on Land, and Zero Hunger.
“Planting trees is a fundamental yet highly effective measure in addressing environmental challenges,” Mbewe noted, highlighting the trees’ role as natural carbon sinks and their potential to provide nutritional and economic benefits to ZAPD’s Mimosa Farm and its workers.
Expressing gratitude for the partnership, ZAPD Director of Finance and Administration, Twaambo Hatwiko, represented by the Project Manager Mulenga Sichimbwe, conveyed his appreciation, stating that, “These fruit trees represent far more than agricultural produce; they symbolize empowerment, inclusion, and a significant step towards economic independence for persons with disabilities.”
He further emphasized that the initiative would significantly contribute to ZAPD’s mission of empowering persons with disabilities through practical agricultural training and the development of sustainable livelihoods. “This collaboration transcends mere tree planting; it is about cultivating opportunity and laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability,” he added.
BDO Zambia reaffirmed its ongoing commitment to reducing its carbon footprint and promoting ethical, inclusive, and sustainable practices.
The firm has pledged to reduce its carbon dioxide emissions to pre-industrial levels by 2030, underscoring its dedication to responsible corporate citizenship.
Fresh from being readmitted into the International Tennis Federation (ITF) circle, the Zambia Tennis Association (ZTA) has set out to further it’s ambitions of finding the next “ace” during the upcoming National Junior National Tournament slotted for 31st May 2025. The tournament will attract the youth under the age of 18 – according to ZTA this platform takes place every year, and it is vitally used to rank the efficiency of the players. Speaking in an exclusive interview with the Zambian Business Times (ZBT) ZTA Secretary General Joe Siame echoed that in the recent past, the tournament has garnered over a 100 youth and this year the number is expected to increase to above 120. “The tournament has done extremely well in terms of helping us to scout for talent, and so far we can proudly mention the likes of the Mulenga brothers – Gift and Mapalo from Nkana, and Shalom Soko who was in Under 10 last year and now under who are doing extremely well.” He revealed that even though there is no prize money, the tournament is significant “It gives us am opportunity to gauge the level of skill of the players, and it gives them a chance to showcase their skills and talent, we use this tournament to rank our players in terms of selection for national team events.” In a country which has a wide gap between skills and facilities, such platforms are essential to the elevation of players, and who knows we might have a star that will beacon at the Billie Jean Tournament or any ITF outing.
Chilanga Cement PLC, a member of the Huaxin Group, hosted its annual Customer Appreciation Dinner on Friday, April 11, 2025, at Twangale Park in Lusaka.
The event brought together key customers, business partners, and key stakeholders to honour and celebrate the relationships that continue to drive the construction sector in Zambia and the region forward.
The evening, centered on partnership, progress, and mutual growth, was graced by Chilanga Cement PLC Chief Executive Officer, Jianping Chai, and his management team.
Customers from both local and export markets were in attendance, reflecting the depth of the company’s relationships and its wide-reaching impact.
“Our customers are more than just clients, they are an essential part of our journey,” said Mr. Chai during his keynote speech.
“Your loyalty and trust challenge us to do better, to innovate, and to lead. Tonight, we honour that commitment.”
Brian Chen, Executive Assistant for Commercial and Supply Chain, emphasized the importance of responsive service delivery, noting that the team’s goal is not only to provide cement, but to ensure customers receive timely, reliable service that supports the smooth progress of their projects.
Meanwhile, Collins Chilala a local customer, praised Chilanga Cement’s consistency and excellent customer service, calling the evening “a true testament to a partnership built on mutual respect and collaboration.”
And Charles Gwanyanya, a customer from Zimbabwe, applauded the company’s ability to meet export market challenges with reliability, helping businesses across borders build both infrastructure and trust.
Deputy Plant Manager, Jonas Kaonga, highlighted the plant’s focus on efficiency and quality, reaffirming the company’s commitment to providing dependable products that form the foundation of Zambia’s growth.
The event provided an opportunity for stakeholders to network and share feedback, fostering continued partnership and business growth.
In the midst of a power deficit that has nearly crippled the economy and left many Zambians gasping for financial stability. Leading to a heightened inflation, and a flip-flop in the Kwacha’s performance – factors that have tattered the viability of production of goods and services.
According to an official report, the country’s peak demand stands at 2500MW, largely hydropower comprises 83% of the generation, stemming from Hydro power Stations dotted across the country. With solar and coal contributing smaller fractions, nine and five percent respectively, according to a 2024 report.
According to the Integrated Resource Plan (IRP), by 2050 the demand will massively heighten to 23, 000 with a potential investment of nearly $31 billion needed to attain such a feat.
Kafue Gorge Lower (KGL) Hydroelectric power station located on Kafue River in Southern Chikankata District – stands as a major contributor to the principal grid, and is reported to produce 750MW. However, with the emergence of the drought that dwindled the level of water bodies, ZBT attempted to inquire about the current capacity and some of the glitches attached to maximum supply to the national grid.
Our attempt started off with a call to a number that is displayed on their Facebook page. After calling it, a named man picked up but later denied working for the company, afterwards he revealed that several people had called him inquiring about the same matter.
He further told ZBT that he lives in Mazabuka instead of Chikankata District.
This faintish response raised an avalanche of suspicions, on whether the man knew exactly what the conversation looked like but opted to brush it off entirely.
For a company that is at the centre of providing an essential commodity, they are supposed to feed the public with both electricity and information on the status of generation.
Determined to unearth news worthy information, we managed to track a lady who identified herself as media personnel. Further scrutiny revealed that the lady was in no position to answer the questions, as she admitted to lacking the technical know how on the matter and further pushed the matter to an engineer.
Running against broadcast time, ZBT requested for the engineer’s number. At first, the named lady promised to send, but a few minutes later, her phone went unanswered.
Further raising suspicions on the transparency attached to the electricity debacle, are the authorities hiding something from the citizens or its just sheer incompetence?
As the country waits for the shortfall to attain normalcy, it is important for institutions like Hydropower stations to work alongside the media in updating the nation on the current situation.–this might quench some of the purported accusations of such entities. Otherwise, Kafue Gorge’s response is baffling and unethical.
News broke out that Zimbabwe, Zambia’s neighbour to the south which is still under some form of international sanctions and also uses the Kariba Hydro Power plant which it shares with Zambia as one of its major source for power generation, had increased its hours of power supply to 20 hours a day. Prior to this, a visiting Namibian government official thanked the Zambian government for continued export of electricity to his country (despite Namibia not having experienced steep power deficits compared to Zambia).
When power supply was at its lowest, even the import of power from Mozambique was said to be restrained due to low capacity on the inter-connector power line. Somewhere in between the above timelines, Energy regulatory agency – The Energy Regulation Board (ERB) had at some point approved an emergency electricity tariff adjustment by state owned power utility – ZESCO, to enable the importation of power, with a promise that this tariff would enable more power imports and more hours of power supply.
Earlier this year 2025, as the rainy season resurrected after an initial second year of draught scare, after having a relatively better rain season, the Zambezi River Authority – a shared regulator between Zambia and Zimbabwe announced that it had doubled its water allocation to both Zambia and Zimbabwe for 2025, an announcement that was expected to at a minimum result into at least increase of official power supply hours from 7 to say 14hours.
With some major hydro power plants dependent on the Kafue River basin that taps from the Northern regions of Zambia, it has been highly anticipated that steep and excessive load shedding hours would soon come to an end, but the authorities are quite, mute and very few senior officials both in government and at generation plants are willing to talk publicly.
All the above actions or inactions have been happening with continued steep load shedding hours in Zambia, with some areas still reporting that power supply continues to be next to zero, despite the officially communicated 7 hours of minimum power supply. This scenario has practically decimated local businesses, some of which had been built over decades. A setback, that may need another decade to rebuild the local businesses sector, which still remain the largest employer in Zambia, with the latest BOZ/ZAMSTATS report pegging the employment numbers in the informal and local businesses set up to be well over 1.5 million people. With an average family size of 5, the welfare of local businesses accounts for over 7.5 million Zambians (1.5m people by an average household size of 5), close to half the population of Zambia.
Despite these glaring statistics, the failure to conclude and launch the announced multi million dollar government & foreign investors large scale solar deals (such as the one with UAE’s MASDAR) which had projected to add over 3,000MW and the fact that Zambia received normal to above normal rainfall to fill up the dams and re-invigorate the already established hydro power generation plants, the Zambian Government has remained mute on when the power supply hours would be enhanced, with some businesses even calling for a full and consistent power supply to support a normal production day of 8am to 5pm (9 hours). Just this as an initial first step , would help to restart the local business rebuilding process, but it all seems to be a far fetched wishful list item.
Seeing these inconsistencies and lack of clarity on the current power production, distribution available to households and businesses domiciled in Zambia, the Zambian Business Times – ZBT launched a media investigation. This process involved using internally generated resources, going directly and getting information right from the sources and locations of top power generation sites. This was the most practical strategy as any attempts to get the needed information centrally is met with sort or another form of delays, deflections which eventually ends up frustrating any media investigation.
This is despite the fact that Zambia now has a law in place, the Access to Information Act – ATI. ATI practical operationalization and implementation seems to have stalled.
One impeccable contact told ZBT that “it was the IMF that actually helped to even get it enacted into law as it was one of the agreed condition for the initial $1.3 billion Extended Credit Facility – ECF, but the IMF forgot in the fine print of the deal to add the details to require operationalization and full implementation. So, the box for enacting the law has been ticked. At the time of writing this article, the tenure of the board of the Human Rights Commission – HRC, which was selected as the implementing agency for ATI Act, has just expired, with no immediate replacement or re-confirmation for another team to take over. One is left to wonder when ATI will see the light of day, but that is a story for another day.
So, ZBT went ahead and managed to get the current production capacity of the top 7 power production plants in Zambia. Six are hydro plants and one is coal fired. With the full knowledge and confirmation through an ERB report that Zambia’s current peak demand for electricity is about 2,400MW. ZBT can reveal that the survey findings are that Zambia has currently as of first week of April 2025, increased its electricity production output from the announced lows of below 500MW to now over 1,700MW, see table below.
With a peak national demand for Zambia estimated at about 2,400MW, these current production levels are about 74% (1,778/2400) of national peak demand. Using simple ratios, the current power production levels can deliver about 18hours of the 24 hours in a day at peak power supply needs. So, this then leads to some few fine conclusions, the excess power being generated currently is either going into export or supply industrial mining companies with huge power needs, which had been getting from the export market through GreenCo. But this raises serious questions on morality and treatment of Zambian domiciled and local businesses.
Most of this power is generated by state owned power plants, the state is a creature of the people, the local citizens and their businesses, whose interest should come first above all export considerations. Is the continued excessive load shedding justified even when power generation capacity has improved? Who is really benefitting from these export contracts when the majority locally set up businesses are being killed and households continue to struggle to make end meat and more livelihoods are being lost with horizons for recovery being further delayed?
In conducting this media survey and investigation, one of the biggest challenges we noted as ZBT is that most of the power generating company officials and top managers are deeply afraid to speak and even confirm details of production.
We have even removed the names from this article in consideration of their concerns when speaking to ZBT. The lack of freedom of speech and gagging of top officials needs to be looked at as this is what is creating avenues for corruption, rent seeking behaviour even on critical matters such as national power supply. As a country, Zambia needs to realise that it is important for transparency and meritocracy to reign, especially in the use and application of public funds.
Only with transparent and merit based decision making can lead to proper investment of public funds, running a more transparent governance system is key to realizing the much needed and broad based national development. Even as we appreciate that some transactions and decisions will be classified, this matter of continued and excessive load shedding households and businesses domiciled in Zambia is not working, as there has been no cost benefit analyses done to show that its better to export power at the expense of the death of local enterprise. For those with access to the head of state who constitutionally has the final say on policies being implemented by government, this article needs to reach his attention as its now unjustified to continue with this excessive load shedding. Zambian citizens need the power first before it can export the excess.
The UN Tourism Secretary-General Zurab Pololikashvili has emphasized the crucial role of connectivity, investment, and skills development in building a more resilient and prosperous tourism sector for both Africa and Americas.Meanwhile, UN Tourism Secretary-General, Pololikashvii expressed his gratitude to Zambia for hosting the 2nd UN Tourism Africa and Americas summit in Livingstone noting the city’s impressive hospitality and the warm welcome extended to attendees.
Addressing delegates at the 2nd UN Tourism Africa and Americas summit in Livingstone, Zambia, Pololikashvili expressed his gratitude to Zambia for hosting the summit in Livingstone, noting the city’s impressive hospitality and the warm welcome extended to attendees.
The Secretary-General underscored the significance of the summit as a testament to the enduring commitment of Africa and the Americas to cross-border and intercontinental cooperation. He highlighted the sector’s remarkable recovery and potential, citing UN Tourism data indicating that international arrivals reached 1.4 billion in 2024, representing 99% of pre-pandemic levels.
Africa experienced a 12% increase in international travelers, welcoming 74 million, while the Americas saw 213 million arrivals, reaching approximately 97% of 2019 figures.Pololikashvili stressed the proven ability of connectivity to foster economic and cultural exchange, reiterating UN Tourism’s commitment to working with member states to enhance connections within and between regions.
He also highlighted the role of investment as a key driver of development and progress. He noted that Africa and the Americas attracted over $40 billion in foreign direct investment between 2019 and 2023, generating approximately 150,000 jobs across 520 greenfield projects. He also pointed out the increasing trend towards environmentally conscious tourism investments, aligning with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, representing Vice President W.K. Mutale Nalumango, highlighted the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges posed by recent global disruptions, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the El Niño drought. He emphasized the critical role of connectivity in facilitating the movement of people and ideas, advocating for streamlined visa processes and enhanced logistical frameworks stating that as tangible demonstration of this commitment, Zambia announced the expansion of visa-free travel to nationals from an additional 53 countries, bringing the total to 167.
The Minister also underscored the necessity of strategic investment in sustainable and innovative tourism projects.
He cited UN Tourism data indicating significant growth in international tourist arrivals and export revenues within the Africa and Americas regions, as well as substantial foreign direct investment in the sector.
He urged public and private sector representatives to forge partnerships aimed at channeling investments into projects that promote sustainable development.Addressing the issue of skilled workforce development, Minister Sikumba acknowledged the sector’s labor-intensive nature and the current shortage of qualified professionals.
He called for prioritizing education and training programs to equip the workforce with the necessary skills and knowledge to meet evolving industry demands.
He emphasized the importance of empowering youth and creating pathways to opportunities, positioning them as future leaders in the tourism sector.
Sikumba encouraged delegates to engage actively, share insights, and foster new partnerships, emphasizing the invaluable contributions of local communities to tourism development.
Speaking on behalf of the Minister of Tourism of the Dominican Republic and in his capacity as Chairperson of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa, Vice Minister Carlos Peguero underscored the transformative power of tourism beyond its economic impact, positioning it as a vital instrument for social and cultural development.
He highlighted its capacity to foster inclusion, generate employment opportunities, and strengthen the unique cultural identities of nations within both regions.Drawing attention to the deep historical and cultural ties between Africa and the Americas, stemming from the era of the transatlantic slave trade, Peguero emphasized the potential of tourism to celebrate and further strengthen these enduring connections.
He called for leveraging this shared heritage to drive economic development and promote sustainable tourism practices.
He also lauded Zambia for hosting the summit and reiterated the commitment of the Dominican Republic to working alongside African nations to ensure that tourism serves as a robust pillar for development across both continents.
The UN Tourism Africa and Americas Summit has been officially declared open, with a focus on unlocking the full potential of tourism as a catalyst for economic growth, environmental sustainability, and cultural enrichment.
The Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) Chief Executive Officer – CEO, Matongo Matamwandi says the Agency is strategically prioritizing the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions and Events (MICE) sector as a crucial driver in achieving its ambitious target of 2.5 million tourist arrivals this year.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit in Livingstone, Matamwandi underscored the agency’s deliberate and long-standing commitment to developing Zambia as a premier MICE destination.
“Our focus on MICE is not a reactive measure but a well-defined strategy within our destination marketing plan,” stated CEO Matamwandi. affirmed CEO Matamwandi.
He elaborated on the ZTA’s proactive engagement with NGOs, government bodies, and professional associations, offering specialized support to facilitate successful bids for hosting international and regional events in Zambia.
“We are actively equipping these organizations with the necessary skills and resources to attract significant MICE business, which directly aligns with our strategic objectives for this high-value tourism segment.” Matamwandi highlighted the substantial economic impact of MICE tourism, citing both global trends and compelling local data indicating that 70 to 80% of revenue for surveyed Zambian hotels originates from MICE activities.
He emphasized the widespread benefits of hosting large-scale events, extending beyond accommodation to positively influence transportation, local businesses, and overall community development.
The ZTA CEO also noted the strategic timing of the UN Tourism summit in amplifying Zambia’s MICE potential adding that the presence of numerous international delegates, including a significant contingent from Latin American countries, provided invaluable networking and benchmarking opportunities. Planned familiarization trips to iconic attractions like Victoria Falls aimed to showcase Zambia’s appeal as a holistic destination, potentially leading to future leisure and MICE bookings, alongside positive word-of-mouth promotion.
Looking ahead, the ZTA is actively pursuing government-to-government collaborations and bilateral meetings to forge joint marketing initiatives, with a specific focus on engaging with countries in Africa and Latin America for mutually beneficial tourism exchanges that include MICE components.
Acknowledging existing infrastructural limitations, such as the need for a dedicated convention center in Livingstone and current bed capacity constraints, Matamwandi stated that the growing demand for hosting larger events is prompting increased private sector investment in expanding facilities and discussions surrounding potential funding opportunities to address these infrastructural needs are ongoing.
Despite these challenges, the ZTA remains optimistic about achieving its tourism targets adding that the reported 38% increase in international inquiries last year underscores the growing global interest in Zambia.
The United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism) Secretary-General, Zurab Pololikashvili, has commenced an official visit to Zambia, signaling a significant advancement in the nation’s strategic tourism development initiatives.
Upon arrival, Secretary-General Pololikashvili is scheduled to conduct a formal courtesy call with President Hakainde Hichilema at State House, Lusaka. This high-level engagement underscores Zambia’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a pivotal driver of sustainable economic growth and reinforces the collaborative partnership between Zambia and UN Tourism.
Following the State House meeting, Secretary-General Pololikashvili will officiate the Education Summit on April 7, 2025, at the Mulungushi International Conference Center. This summit will convene key stakeholders from government, academia, and the tourism sector to deliberate on the critical role of education in fostering a resilient and inclusive tourism industry.
On April 8, 2025, the Secretary-General will proceed to Livingstone, Zambia’s prominent tourism hub, to officiate at the second edition of the UN Tourism Commission for Africa and the Commission for the Americas (CAFCAM) at the Radisson Blu Resort.
CAFCAM serves as a strategic platform for showcasing Africa’s diverse cultural heritage and promoting the creative industries as integral components of sustainable tourism development.
Welcoming the Secretary-General to Zambia, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, Evans Muhanga, extended a formal welcome to Secretary-General Pololikashvili, stating, “We are honored to host Secretary-General Pololikashvili in Zambia. “His visit is both timely and strategically significant, aligning with our national objectives to position tourism as a catalyst for inclusive growth, education, and innovation.”
“Zambia possesses a wealth of cultural and natural assets, and we are committed to collaborating with international partners such as UN Tourism to maximize the potential of our tourism sector. We anticipate that this visit will cultivate new avenues for investment, collaboration, and sustainable development.”
Secretary-General Pololikashvili’s visit to Zambia affirms the nation’s increasing prominence in the global tourism dialogue and presents a valuable opportunity to showcase Zambia’s natural attractions, cultural heritage, and investment potential. This engagement is expected to strengthen bilateral cooperation with UN Tourism, attract strategic investments, and promote Zambia as a center for sustainable tourism, education, and cultural exchange, thereby solidifying its position as a burgeoning tourism destination in Africa and beyond.
