Zambia Eyes 3 Million Visitors as Tourism Becomes Economic Powerhouse
The Zambian government has announced an ambitious goal of attracting 3 million international visitors by the end of 2025, marking a major boost to the country’s tourism-driven economic recovery.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 97th Zambia Agriculture and Commercial Show in Lusaka, Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba revealed that Zambia had already welcomed 1.2 million international tourists by mid-year, surpassing last year’s mid-year figure of 1.1 million.
“With the momentum we’re seeing, our target of 2.4 million arrivals is well within reach, and we might just break through the 3 million mark,” said Sikumba.
The minister described the tourism sector as a rising pillar of the Zambian economy, especially after the 2024 drought crippled agriculture and placed pressure on mining. “When other sectors were hit hard, tourism kept our economy breathing,” he added, highlighting that tourism helped push Zambia’s GDP growth to 4 percent, with a 6 percent target in sight.
Beyond tallying visitor numbers, the ministry is now tracking tourism’s impact on job creation and national growth, emphasizing that the sector is no longer a luxury for international elites, but a key economic driver accessible to more Zambians.
To support this momentum, the government is also collaborating with the Ministries of Transport and Infrastructure to improve roads, signage, and park access, ensuring smoother and safer travel across the country.
The tourism showcase at the showgrounds brought together agencies, private partners, and products under one vibrant stand, signaling a united front in marketing Zambia as a must-visit destination.
