Reported by: The Agency Media.
Date: 11th April 2025.
Livingstone, Southern Province, Zambia.
Zambia has taken a decisive step toward strengthening international tourism ties, engaging in high-level discussions with Brazil to forge dynamic partnerships aimed at accelerating growth in the sector.
During a pivotal meeting held on the margins of the 2nd UN Tourism Summit at the Radisson Blu Mosi-oa-Tunya in Livingstone, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, led a delegation that included Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga and senior government officials. They met with Brazil’s National Secretary for Infrastructure, Credit, and Investment in Tourism, Mr. Carlos Henrique Menezes Sobral, to explore new avenues for collaboration between the two nations.
Central to the discussions was the shared ambition to enhance air connectivity between Zambia and Brazil — a move seen as critical to unlocking greater travel, trade, and cultural exchange. The possibility of establishing direct flight routes between Brazilian cities such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo and key SADC regional hubs, or even directly into Zambia, was given significant attention.
Mr. Sobral underscored Brazil’s commitment to deepening South-South cooperation, highlighting opportunities for joint ventures, capacity-building initiatives, and cultural exchange programs. He emphasised Brazil’s readiness to work closely with Zambia to promote sustainable tourism development and investment in critical infrastructure.
Zambia views this burgeoning partnership as an opportunity to tap into Brazil’s vast tourism expertise, while further positioning itself as a premier destination for eco-tourism and cultural heritage in Africa. The collaboration is expected to drive knowledge sharing, attract investment, and amplify Zambia’s visibility on the global tourism stage.
Looking ahead, Zambia is preparing to actively participate in the 3rd UN Tourism Summit, set to be hosted by Brazil in 2026. This global platform will offer Zambia a valuable opportunity to showcase its tourism offerings, engage with international stakeholders, and forge strategic alliances to propel the sector forward.
The Ministry of Tourism reaffirmed its dedication to expanding Zambia’s tourism footprint, pledging to ensure that the sector continues to play a pivotal role in the country’s socio-economic development.
The Agency.