Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, has been honored with a prestigious award at the Safari Club International (SCI) Annual Convention, held in Nashville, Tennessee, USA, from January 2 to 25, 2025. The award recognizes his exceptional contributions to promoting sustainable tourism and wildlife conservation in Zambia.
According to a statement by Ministry of Tourism Principal Public Relations Officer, Nelly Banda, Mr. Sikumba’s recognition underscores Zambia’s rising profile as a premier safari tourism destination. The country is celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, well-managed wildlife reserves, and innovative conservation efforts.
The SCI Annual Convention, renowned as the largest global gathering of hunting, conservation, and outdoor enthusiasts, draws participants from across the world. This prestigious accolade further cements Zambia’s reputation as a leader in eco-tourism and sustainable wildlife management.
A Shared Achievement for Zambia
Expressing his gratitude, Mr. Sikumba dedicated the award to Zambia’s collaborative conservation efforts. “It is an honor to receive this award on behalf of Zambia. This recognition reflects the joint efforts of our government, local communities, and conservation partners to protect our natural resources while fostering sustainable tourism development,” he said.
He reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to preserving its wildlife heritage and ensuring that the tourism sector contributes to both environmental sustainability and economic growth. “We are committed to continuing this vital work to ensure Zambia remains a global leader in wildlife conservation and tourism,” Mr. Sikumba added.
Tourism as a Pillar of Development
Zambia has gained global acclaim for its iconic safari experiences, boasting world-class destinations such as the South Luangwa National Park, Kafue National Park, and the Lower Zambezi. These parks, combined with community-driven conservation initiatives, have solidified the country’s position as a must-visit destination for eco-conscious travelers.
The Ministry of Tourism highlighted that fostering partnerships remains central to Zambia’s strategy to balance economic development with environmental stewardship. The recognition of Minister Sikumba at the SCI Convention is a testament to these efforts and sets the stage for greater opportunities in sustainable tourism and wildlife management.
As Zambia continues to champion eco-tourism, awards like this underscore the nation’s role as a global leader in integrating conservation with tourism for the benefit of future generations.