Zambia’s Ambassador to Germany, Winnie Chibesakunda, says the Zambian government is dedicated to transformational growth in the tourism sector.
Speaking during the ‘destination Zambia Presentation meeting which was held on the side-lines of the International Tourism Bourse (ITB) in Berlin, Ambassador Chibesakunda said tourism is a vital pillar of Zambia’s development strategy adding that the sector has potential to create jobs, empower communities and contribute to sustainable development.
Ambassador Chibesakunda stressed that Zambia is focused on not only attracting international tourists but also elevating the experience of domestic travelers and further expressed happiness that for the year 2024, Zambia reached a milestone of 2.2 million tourist arrivals representing 35.3 % an increase from 2023, with visits to national parks, museums and heritage sites growing to 530,000, reflecting a 9 percent increase.
She said that Zambia, through the Ministry of Tourism aims to increase tourism international arrivals to 2.4 million and to boost domestic tourism by 30% and enhance air access and visa policies adding that Zambia was now offering visa free entry to 167 countries.
Ambassador Chibesakunda pointed out that the progress made in meeting targets in 2024 reflects the Tourism Ministry’s commitment to promoting Zambia as a premier travel destination and stressed that with the unwavering support of President Hakainde Hichilema and increased budgetary allocations, sustainable growth in the sector was assured.
“The government cannot achieve the tourism growth vision alone but through partnerships with travel agencies, airlines, hoteliers, tour operators and other stakeholders, a thriving tourism ecosystem can be created,” said Ambassador Chibesakunda.
This is contained in a statement made available to RCV News in Lusaka today by First Secretary-Press at the Zambian embassy in Germany, Lubinda Kashewe.
By Chimba Chilopa.
