Zambia, Zimbabwe Team Up to Boost Victoria Falls Tourism and Trade
Zambia and Zimbabwe have reaffirmed their commitment to position Victoria Falls as a world-class centre for tourism, trade, and regional integration, following resolutions from the recent Zambia-Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Harare.
During a high-level bilateral meeting at the Radisson Blu Hotel, Zambia’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Rodney Sikumba, highlighted the urgency of implementing strategic directives from Presidents Hakainde Hichilema and Emmerson Mnangagwa.
A key outcome of the BNC is the extension of operating hours at the Victoria Falls Border Post to 24 hours, a move expected to reduce congestion, improve traveller convenience, and enhance trade efficiency.
“This bilateral engagement is central to converting our leaders’ vision into tangible realities,” said Hon. Sikumba. “We are committed to modernising the Livingstone–Victoria Falls border into a world-class, people-centred gateway.”
Zimbabwe’s Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality, Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa, echoed the call for closer collaboration, emphasising the need to balance the preservation of Mosi-oa-Tunya’s natural splendour with the smooth movement of people, goods, and services.
“The urgency of setting clear and achievable timelines cannot be overstated,” he said. “Only through coordinated action can we unlock the full benefits of growing visitor arrivals and strengthened economic ties.”
Supporting these efforts, Mr. Nathan Belete, World Bank Division Director for Malawi, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, encouraged both nations to remove non-tariff barriers and harmonise visa regimes.
He noted that while tourism has rebounded, Zambia recording 2.2 million international arrivals and Zimbabwe 1.6 million, significant potential remains untapped.
“Tourism is a powerful catalyst for job creation and inclusive development, particularly for women and youth around Victoria Falls,” Mr. Belete stated.
He added that bilateral trade has reached USD 460 million, bolstered by recent agreements in the energy and private sectors.
As Zambia and Zimbabwe advance their joint vision, their collaboration reflects shared values of sustainability, cultural pride, and economic resilience.
Together, the nations aim to create a seamless visitor experience while maximising socio-economic benefits for communities on both sides of the iconic Victoria Falls.
