Zambia Set to Welcome 2 Million Tourists in 2024
Zambia is experiencing a tourism boom, having welcomed 1.7 million international visitors between January and October this year. With data still being tabulated for November and December, the government is optimistic that the total will reach two million by the year’s end, signalling a strong growth trajectory for the sector.
Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba, speaking at the 2024 Tourism Excellence Awards in Lusaka, urged Zambians to capitalise on the expanding industry by investing in tourism-related ventures. He emphasised the need to “boost investment in the tourism sector to draw greater global attention to Zambia’s unique attractions,” underlining the potential for the country to become a premier destination on the world stage. High-profile visits, such as American media personality Steve Harvey’s recent trip, have also bolstered the country’s visibility, drawing global attention to its cultural and natural attractions.
The positive trend aligns with projections for Zambia’s Travel & Tourism market, which is expected to generate US$133.70 million in revenue in 2024. The market is poised for a compound annual growth rate of 9.35% from 2024 to 2029, reaching a forecasted volume of US$209.00 million by the end of the period.
Opportunities for improvement remain, with Zambia Tourism Agency Chairman Daan Brink highlighting the potential to enhance the city of Livingstone’s appeal by addressing the persistent mosquito issue. “The problem with mosquitoes and Livingstone needs to be addressed - it’s a health hazard and it’s a big problem” he emphasised. As a gateway to the iconic Victoria Falls, proactive efforts in this area could elevate the city’s reputation and further contribute to the country’s growing tourism goals.
As Zambia nears its target, the government’s commitment to continuous improvement and leveraging opportunities is set to shape the sector’s future. The tourism industry remains a cornerstone of the nation’s economic growth, offering vast potential for local and international stakeholders alike.