Zambia Gears Up as Africa’s Adventure Tourism Hub with Bike Culture Festival
Africa Bike Culture has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Zambian government in expanding the nation’s tourism sector through the rapidly growing sport and economy of biking.
Speaking at the launch of the Africa Bike Culture Festival, Club CEO Luckie Chiyowele expressed deep appreciation to Zambia and other African countries for embracing biking not only as a recreational pastime but also as a powerful economic driver that enhances tourism performance.
Mr Chiyowele emphasised Zambia’s strategic centrality on the continent, describing the country as a natural “safe haven” for bikers from around the world, regardless of background, seeking adventure and an opportunity to experience Zambia’s rich tourism offerings.
“When we meet riders across the region, they become our brand ambassadors. We don’t need to meet everyone; we simply need to meet the right people,” he explained.
Highlighting the growing influence of motorcycle tourism, he added: “Economically, we are moving forward through bike riding, and you cannot ignore us because we roll like thunder.”
He also reassured the public that today’s bikers embrace safety and responsible riding, distancing themselves from negative stereotypes associated with previous generations.
Guest of honour, Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, hailed the festival as a major milestone in positioning Zambia as a leading destination for adventure tourism.
He commended the club for building “a growing movement founded by young and visionary Zambians,” which contributes significantly to community engagement, regional integration, and tourism diversification.
Minister Sikumba also pointed to the success of the recent Mosi-oa-Tunya Rally, which attracted riders from several African countries and showcased Zambia’s potential to become a regional hub for motorcycling experiences.
“Motorcycle tourism is no longer a fringe concept,” he emphasised. “It is an emerging industry with enormous potential for Zambia.”
The Africa Bike Culture Festival is set to take place from 22–29 May 2026 in Livingstone, with participants expected from more than ten African nations.
Minister Sikumba further noted that the initiative aligns with the Eighth National Development Plan and the Tourism Master Plan (2022–2038), both of which prioritise tourism product diversification and youth-led innovation.
He added that biker-led safety campaigns also support the government’s wider road safety agenda.
“The future is already here,” he concluded, affirming the government’s full support for the festival and the wider biking movement.
