Tourism Minister Arrives in Egypt Ahead of Grand Egyptian Museum Opening
The Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney M. Sikumba, MP, has arrived in Cairo to attend the official opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM), set to take place on 1 November 2025.
Hon. Sikumba is representing His Excellency Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, following an official invitation from His Excellency Mr Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt.
Upon arrival at Cairo International Airport, the Minister was received by Major General (Rtd) Topply Mulambo Lubaya, Zambia’s Ambassador to Egypt, together with officials from the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
He is accompanied by Mr George Mudenda, Director-General of the National Museums Board, and senior officials from the Ministry of Tourism.
During the visit, Hon. Sikumba will hold a bilateral meeting with Mr Sherif Fathy, Egypt’s Minister of Tourism and Antiquities. He will also engage key institutions and private-sector investors in order to strengthen cooperation in tourism investment, heritage management, and cultural exchange between the two countries.
Speaking on arrival, the Minister said Zambia’s participation in the historic event demonstrates continued commitment to advancing cultural diplomacy and sustainable tourism:
“Zambia’s participation in this historic opening is not only a testament to our shared cultural values, but also a reaffirmation of our commitment to positioning tourism and heritage as key drivers of sustainable development.
The Grand Egyptian Museum stands as a global example of how culture and innovation can work together to preserve the past while creating opportunities for the future. We hope to build on such partnerships to enhance Zambia’s own heritage and tourism landscape.”
The visit aligns with Government priorities under the Eighth National Development Plan (8NDP) and Vision 2030, which seek to promote cultural preservation, create jobs, attract investment, and strengthen bilateral relations.
