Zambia’s tourism sector has not been spared from the effects of COVID-19 as the country has recorded a total loss in revenues of about US$7 million (US$6,990,106) representing a reduction of 21% in the short time that COVID 19 effects have spread to the country.
Minister of Tourism Ronald Chitotela disclosed to the Zambian Business Times – ZBT during a joint media briefing in Lusaka on March 26, 2020, that the losses are as a result of the cancelation of tourists arrivals and bookings into the country on threats of COVID-19 who later demanded to be paid back their monies after making bookings.
Eastern province has recorded a reduction in revenues amounting to US$3,591,793 followed by Southern province with US$1,991,117, Lusaka province US$425,296, Western Province with US$140,000 and Central province which houses Kafue national park has recorded a loss of US$600,000.
Chitotela added that the losses have a huge impact on governments treasury as the monies that were paid in advance were utilized for other needs such as preparations for hosting these tourists, hence paying back tourists is a major a drawback.
“The region that has been hit the most is the Eastern province which comes with the South Luangwa national park Safari packages, this has an effect on our treasury because some of these monies were paid in advance and the owners are demanding a repayment,” He said.
The minister has since urged citizens and tourists to stick to the “Stay home and travel tomorrow” theme for the safety of others and mitigate the spread of COVID-19. He added that individuals should only travel where necessary by complying with public health authority guidelines.
Meanwhile, President Edgar Lungu had on March 25, 2020 announced a suspension of all international flights from Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula and Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe international airports stating that all flights coming into the country should land and depart only from Kenneth Kaunda Airport in Lusaka city to ensure efficient and effective screening of travelers.
