Zambia’s Private tourism sector has set an ambitious target of attracting 3 million international visitors and generating $1 billion in revenue by the end of 2025.
Speaking during a stakeholders meeting with President Hakainde Hichilema at State House today, delegation leader and Protea Hotel owner, Mark O’Donnell, highlighted the sector’s strong performance, noting that international tourist arrivals rose from 1.3 million in 2023 to 2.2 million in 2024.
Mr. O’Donnell said tourism is rapidly emerging as one of Zambia’s key economic pillars, contributing significantly to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He emphasized the sector’s capacity to create employment across a wide range of industries, including hospitality, restaurants, and travel services.
Mr. O’Donnell called for the creation of an enabling environment to unlock more opportunities that would not only boost the economy but also improve individual livelihoods.
And President Hichilema praised the sector’s ambitious vision and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting tourism growth through relevant government ministries and policy interventions.
“We are ready to work with the private sector to ensure Zambia becomes a leading tourism destination in Africa,” said President Hichilema.
By Margaret Mwanza
