Zambia Introduces Museums Policy to Strengthen Heritage and Expand Tourism Opportunities
The Government of Zambia, through the Ministry of Tourism, has unveiled a new corporate logo for the National Museums Board and launched the country’s first-ever National Museums Policy and Implementation Plan, marking a major milestone in the development of the heritage sector.
Speaking during the official ceremony, Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, described the dual launch as a bold step towards strengthening the museum sub-sector and positioning it as a key driver of cultural preservation and tourism growth.
The newly introduced logo reflects Zambia’s rich cultural identity, incorporating symbolic elements such as the baobab tree, representing resilience and enduring heritage; the drum, symbolising communication and tradition; the clay pot, reflecting cultural preservation and daily life; and the book, signifying knowledge and documentation.
Mr Sikumba said the new visual identity represents a modern, forward-looking institution committed to innovation while preserving the country’s cultural legacy.
He noted that the National Museums Policy provides, for the first time, a comprehensive framework to guide the development, management, and modernisation of Zambia’s museum sub-sector.
“This policy marks a historic turning point. For many years, our museums have operated without a unified policy framework. Today, we are setting a clear path to strengthen heritage preservation, enhance education and research, improve visitor experiences, and expand opportunities for cultural tourism,” he said.
The policy aligns with the Eighth National Development Plan and is expected to contribute to economic transformation, job creation, and inclusive growth through the promotion of heritage and cultural industries.
Mr Sikumba emphasised the need for strong collaboration among stakeholders, including the private sector, academic institutions, local authorities, and cultural organisations, to transform museums into vibrant centres of culture, learning, and tourism.
He further highlighted Government’s commitment, under the leadership of President Hakainde Hichilema, to strengthening institutions and advancing sectors such as tourism and the creative industries.
The Ministry is also undertaking broader reforms aimed at modernising the heritage sector, including the review of the Museums Act of 1966, the National Heritage Conservation Commission Act of 1989, and the development of Zambia’s first Heritage Regulation Bill.
Mr Sikumba expressed appreciation to cooperating partners, particularly the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), for their continued support in heritage preservation and institutional capacity building.
He called on the private sector, development partners, the media, and the public to support the growth of the museum sub-sector, urging citizens to actively engage with Zambia’s cultural heritage.
“Let us take pride in our heritage and work together to preserve, promote, and pass it on to future generations,” he said.
