Zambia’s Evans Muhanga: Tourism is about community beneficiation

The Zambia Ministry of Tourism Permanent Secretary, Evans Muhanga, is optimistic about the growth prospects of the country's tourism sector and is calling for increased participation from the private sector. In an interview with CNBC Africa's Zanele Morrison at Africa's Travel Indaba, Muhanga emphasized the importance of partnerships with the private sector to drive growth in Zambia's tourism industry. He highlighted the need for investment in infrastructure to enhance the tourist experience and benefit local communities. Muhanga stressed that tourism is not just about attracting visitors but also about ensuring that communities benefit economically from the industry. Muhanga expressed confidence in Zambia's potential for increased tourism growth and urged interested parties to consider partnering with the private sector in the country. He emphasized the critical role of infrastructure in attracting tourists and highlighted the government's efforts to improve roads, rail networks, and airlines to enhance access to tourist destinations. Muhanga underscored the importance of community involvement and economic empowerment through tourism, noting that many tourist attractions are located in rural areas where local communities can benefit from increased economic activity. The Permanent Secretary's call for private sector partnerships reflects Zambia's commitment to developing its tourism industry and leveraging its natural attractions to drive economic growth. Muhanga's emphasis on infrastructure development and community involvement aligns with the government's strategy to promote sustainable tourism and ensure that local communities benefit from the industry's expansion. By encouraging collaboration with the private sector, Zambia aims to create a tourism ecosystem that supports economic development and empowers local communities. In conclusion, Evans Muhanga's advocacy for increased private sector participation in Zambia's tourism sector underscores the government's efforts to drive growth and promote community involvement. By investing in infrastructure and fostering partnerships with businesses, Zambia is poised to unlock its tourism potential and harness the economic benefits of this vital industry.