Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 6th April, 2025.
Lusaka, Zambia.
Zambia has rolled out the red carpet for Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili, Secretary-General of the United Nations Tourism (UN Tourism), as he begins an official visit aimed at strengthening Zambia’s position as a leader in sustainable and inclusive tourism development.
Mr. Pololikashvili’s visit, which underscores the country’s rising profile on the global tourism map, commenced with a high-level courtesy call on His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema at State House. The meeting highlighted Zambia’s strategic ambition to leverage tourism as a cornerstone of economic diversification and an engine for sustainable growth.
The Secretary-General’s itinerary reflects a strong focus on education, innovation, and regional collaboration within the tourism sector. On 7 April 2025, he is set to deliver the keynote address at the prestigious Education Summit hosted at the Mulungushi International Conference Center. The summit will convene policymakers, academic leaders, and industry experts to explore the pivotal role of education in nurturing a resilient and forward-looking tourism industry.
Continuing his tour, Mr. Pololikashvili will travel to Livingstone on 8 April 2025, where he will inaugurate the 2nd UN Tourism Commission for Africa and the Americas (CAFCAM) at the Radisson Blu Resort. This landmark event provides a vital platform for Africa and the Americas to forge stronger ties, spotlight the continent’s vibrant cultural heritage, and champion the creative industries as key drivers of tourism development.
Welcoming the Secretary-General, Mr. Evans Muhanga, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Tourism, emphasized the significance of this visit:
“Zambia is honored to host Mr. Pololikashvili at this pivotal moment. His presence reinforces our dedication to harnessing tourism for inclusive growth, innovation, and education. Our country boasts unparalleled natural and cultural treasures, and with global partnerships like this, we are poised to unlock new avenues for sustainable tourism development.”
Mr. Pololikashvili’s mission to Zambia is expected to deepen bilateral engagement with UN Tourism, attract fresh investment opportunities, and position Zambia as a hub for sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and educational advancement.
His visit not only signals global recognition of Zambia’s tourism potential but also reaffirms the nation’s commitment to shaping the future of tourism across Africa and beyond.
The Agency.