Zambia to Host Landmark UN Tourism and Education Summits
Zambia is set to host two major international events, further cementing its position as a global hub for tourism, investment, and hospitality education. The 2nd UN Tourism Africa & Americas Summit (CAF-CAM Summit) and the Tourism Education Summit will take place this April, attracting key industry leaders and stakeholders from around the world.
The CAF-CAM Summit will be held from April 8 to 10 at the Radisson Blu Hotel in Livingstone under the theme: “Advancing Resilient Tourism through Connectivity, Investment, and Skilled Workforce Development.” The high-profile event will bring together tourism professionals, senior government officials, investors, and international tourism stakeholders to explore opportunities for enhanced air connectivity, tourism investment, and workforce development. This summit follows the success of the inaugural event held in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, in October 2024.
Speaking on the significance of the summit, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, Minister of Tourism, stated:“Hosting this summit in Zambia is a defining moment for our tourism and aviation industries. It reinforces our government’s commitment to leveraging tourism as a driver of economic growth, employment, and sustainable development.
This event will inject significant revenue into our local economy, strengthen our global reputation, and position Zambia as a leading destination for international conferences, tourism investment, and hospitality.”
Ahead of the CAF-CAM Summit, Zambia will also host the Tourism Education Summit on April 7. This event will bring together policymakers, industry leaders, and educational institutions to address skills and knowledge gaps in the tourism and hospitality sectors.
Organized through the Zambia Institute for Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS), the summit will focus on aligning tourism education with industry demands, ensuring that Zambia remains a center of excellence for tourism training in Africa.
One of the key achievements from previous education summits has been the integration of tourism and hospitality education into the Zambia Education Curriculum Framework, laying the foundation for a skilled and competitive workforce. The summit will also highlight investment opportunities in tourism education, fostering partnerships between the public and private sectors.
Honourable Sikumba further emphasized: “These summits are more than just conferences; they are catalysts for growth, innovation, and transformation. We call upon all stakeholders, including tourism operators, educational institutions, policymakers, and investors, to collaborate in shaping a globally competitive tourism sector. The time for action is now. Zambia is ready, and the future of tourism starts today!”
The Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with UN Tourism and key partners, is working diligently to ensure the success of these summits. Zambia is poised to welcome global delegates and showcase its vast tourism potential, including the world-renowned Victoria Falls, wildlife reserves, and rich cultural heritage.
