President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing the policy environment to ensure Zambia’s tourism sector thrives. He emphasized the importance of creating favorable conditions for growth by implementing progressive policies that attract international visitors and investors.
Speaking at State House on Monday, when he met a United Nations Tourism delegation led by Secretary General Zurab Pololikashvili, President Hichilema highlighted the significant steps taken by his administration to remove barriers to tourism expansion.
“This government made decisions that were not made for a long time in this country to address some issues that were inhibiting tourism growth, including removing the visa requirement. I think we are one of the few countries now that do so,” President Hichilema stated.
Strengthening Global Partnerships
Beyond tourism, the President also underscored the need for Zambia to strengthen its partnership with the United Nations, particularly in light of shifting global geopolitical dynamics. He noted that deeper collaboration with international organizations such as the UN would provide Zambia with new opportunities to enhance development and economic stability.
“As the global geopolitical landscape continues to change, Zambia must align itself with key international partners to ensure we remain competitive and adaptable in all sectors, including tourism,” he said.
Policy Reforms to Drive Tourism Growth
The Zambian government has introduced various measures to attract tourists, including scrapping visa requirements for select countries, improving infrastructure, and promoting Zambia as a prime destination for both leisure and business travelers. These efforts align with broader economic diversification plans aimed at reducing reliance on traditional industries and expanding revenue from tourism.
With the continued engagement of global partners like the UN, Zambia is positioning itself as a top destination in Africa, leveraging its rich natural heritage, cultural diversity, and hospitality industry to drive sustainable growth in the sector.