Zambia’s Tourism Minister Champions Sector Growth at Africa’s Travel Indaba
Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, led a high-profile delegation to Africa’s Travel Indaba 2025 in Durban, underscoring the nation’s commitment to transforming its tourism sector into a global powerhouse. His presence, alongside 41 Zambian tourism operators, signaled a strategic push to attract investment and position Zambia as a must-visit destination.
Minister Sikumba’s arrival in Durban marked the start of a dynamic engagement at ATI, where he emphasized the private sector’s crucial role in Zambia’s tourism resurgence. The strong contingent of Zambian businesses at the Indaba, he noted, reflects a shared vision for unlocking the sector’s vast potential. This collaborative approach, he asserted, will not only elevate Zambia’s visibility on the world stage but also draw significant investment to fuel sustainable growth.
The Minister’s itinerary included strategic meetings with key industry players, focusing on forging partnerships, expanding into new markets, and showcasing Zambia’s diverse tourism portfolio. These high-level discussions reinforced the government’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a catalyst for broader economic development, creating jobs, and fostering sustainable practices.
Zambia’s Acting High Commissioner to South Africa, Mrs. Inonge Mwenya, echoed the Minister’s sentiments, highlighting the transformative power of collaboration at ATI. The event, she emphasized, serves as a platform for economic empowerment, uniting global industry leaders to celebrate Africa’s rich heritage while generating tangible growth opportunities.
The Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA) spearheaded the nation’s presence at ATI, leading a delegation of 41 local tourism operators. This robust representation showcased Zambia’s unique attractions, from the breathtaking Victoria Falls to its vibrant cultural heritage and diverse wildlife sanctuaries. ATI provided an unparalleled platform for Zambia to connect with international buyers, media representatives, and potential investors, further solidifying its position on the global tourism map.
The Business Opportunity Networking Day (BONDay), a precursor to the main event, fostered insightful discussions on emerging tourism trends. These thought-provoking sessions enriched the dialogue on sustainable and inclusive sector growth, providing valuable takeaways for African travel professionals.
Minister Sikumba’s active participation at ATI served as a powerful testament to Zambia’s long-term vision for tourism. His message resonated clearly: tourism is not merely a supplementary economic activity but a driving force for job creation, environmental sustainability, and enhanced international recognition. This strategic focus positions Zambia as a rising star in African tourism, poised to attract discerning travelers and contribute significantly to the continent’s economic prosperity.
Zambia’s impressive showing at ATI 2025, combined with its ambitious tourism development strategy, presents exciting opportunities for African travel agents. By partnering with Zambian operators, agents can tap into a growing market of experiential travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and breathtaking natural wonders. This collaborative approach promises to unlock new revenue streams, diversify product offerings, and contribute to the sustainable growth of the African travel industry as a whole.
The Minister’s emphasis on public-private partnerships and strategic investment underscores Zambia’s commitment to creating a thriving tourism ecosystem. This proactive approach, combined with the country’s rich natural and cultural heritage, positions Zambia as an increasingly attractive destination for both international travelers and investors. African travel professionals should seize this opportunity to explore the burgeoning potential of Zambia’s tourism sector and contribute to its continued growth.
