Zambia reports 35.3% increase in tourist arrivals as visitors hit 2 million, further growth projected in 2025

The Zambian government claims international tourist arrivals surpassed 2.19 million in 2024, marking a 35.3 percent increase from 2023, with further growth projected in 2025.

Tourism Minister, Rodney Sikumba, stated that visits to national parks, museums, and heritage sites rose to 530,110, reflecting a nine percent increase.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lusaka on Thursday, Sikumba said the government reportedly exceeded revenue targets, generating K319.5 million in non-tax revenue—59 percent higher than the projected K200.9 million.

“Key initiatives included the re-launch of the ‘Take Holiday Yamu Loko’ domestic tourism campaign, with 51 operators signing up, as well as hosting the first-ever KAZA Heads of State and Government Summit, attended by all five member states,” Sikumba claimed.

He stated that the Ministry achieved 1.5 billion digital global views of Zambia’s tourism content, enhancing international visibility.

Sikumba further claimed that tourism remained a key pillar of Zambia’s economic transformation agenda.

Looking ahead, the Ministry aims to increase international arrivals to over 2.4 million, boost domestic tourism by 30 percent, and enhance air access and visa policies, including Zambia’s visa-free entry for 167 countries.

He also reported that the government had begun key legal reforms, including revisions to the Zambia Wildlife Act (2015), the Tourism and Hospitality Act (2015), and the National Museums Act.

Plans to develop and rehabilitate tourism infrastructure at Kasaba Bay, Liuwa National Park, and Livingstone are also underway.

Additionally, Sikumba noted Zambia’s global recognition through the inscription of the Mangwengwe Dance on UNESCO’s Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

However, he acknowledged challenges such as power outages, drought-induced wildlife distress, and human encroachment in protected areas, which have affected operations.

Meanwhile, Tourism Council of Zambia Chairperson, Yosuf Zumla, emphasized the need for improved road infrastructure and expanded air connectivity to boost tourism in 2025.

He further called for increased funding to the Zambia Tourism Agency to strengthen marketing efforts and position Zambia as a premier destination.

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