On November 20, 2024, President Hakainde Hichilema welcomed American actor, television host, author, and businessman Steve Harvey to the State House in Lusaka. The meeting focused on exploring ways to enhance Zambia’s tourism sector, tapping into Mr. Harvey’s vast network, particularly among African American travelers, and leveraging his global influence to attract more international tourists.
During the discussion, President Hichilema emphasized Zambia’s potential to become a leading tourism destination in Africa. Despite challenges such as the ongoing drought, which has affected key attractions like Victoria Falls, the country’s tourism industry continues to show resilience and growth.
“Zambia would greatly benefit from having international celebrities like Mr. Harvey showcase our unique offerings to the world,” President Hichilema stated, highlighting the need for strategic partnerships to elevate Zambia’s profile on the global stage.
Mr. Harvey’s visit marks a significant step in fostering international partnerships aimed at boosting tourism and driving economic growth in Zambia. The President and Mr. Harvey shared a vision of promoting Zambia’s natural beauty, cultural heritage, and untapped tourism potential to the global audience.
While there has been some public debate regarding the effectiveness of such celebrity-driven initiatives, many support the idea of leveraging international connections to promote Zambia. As one commentator noted, “Zambia’s tourism can be boosted by foreigners, especially those with connections like Steve Harvey, who can help raise the country’s visibility.”
Mr. Harvey, who has long been known for his philanthropic work and strong influence within the African American community, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, noting that tourism could play a pivotal role in Zambia’s economic development.
The meeting serves as an important reminder of the need for innovative strategies in Zambia’s tourism sector, aiming not just to recover from challenges but to thrive by showcasing the country’s vast untapped potential.
