Abuja, Nigeria – 12 June 2025 – During the 68th Session of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF), Zambia has been unanimously elected to Chair the Commission for the 2025–2027 period. Honourable Rodney Sikumba, MP, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, will lead the Commission’s work to promote sustainable tourism development across the continent.
The Commission also elected the Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy, Honourable Hannatu Musa Musawa of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Minstry of Hotels and Tourism Honourable Marcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel of the Republic of Angola as Vice Chairpersons for the same term.
Zambia’s Chairmanship presents an opportunity to not only elevate Destination Zambia but also to advocate for all African tourism destinations on the global stage. The unanimous vote by African Ministers of Tourism reflects confidence in Zambia’s leadership to champion a unified and progressive African tourism agenda.
In addition to its new role, Zambia has also been re-elected to the UN Tourism Executive Council for the 2025–2029 term, joining Angola, Zimbabwe, Seychelles, and Kenya. The Executive Council is the governing body responsible for ensuring that UN Tourism effectively fulfills its mandate worldwide.
In his statement to Member States, Honourable Rodney Sikumba expressed heartfelt gratitude to the African Member States for entrusting Zambia with the Chairmanship and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to advancing the mission of UN Tourism in Africa and globally.
Honourable Sikumba concluded by extending appreciation to the outgoing UN Tourism Secretary-General His Excellence Mr. Zurab Pololikashvili for his dedication to advancing African tourism and wished him success in his future endeavors.
Issued by
Nelly Banda
Principal Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Tourism
Banda.Nelly@mot.gov.zm
