Zambia’s Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has held a meeting with the newly appointed Hotel Managers Registration Council (HMRC), marking the official start of the Council’s three-year tenure.
Speaking during the meeting, the Minister congratulated members on their appointment, stating that their selection reflects the Government’s confidence in their expertise, professionalism, and integrity to support the growth and regulation of Zambia’s hospitality sub-sector.
He underscored the Council’s critical role in upholding industry standards, promoting professionalism, and ensuring regulatory compliance across the tourism sector.
According to the Minister, the HMRC remains a key institution in safeguarding quality assurance, strengthening consumer protection, and enhancing the overall credibility of Zambia’s tourism offering.
Mr. Sikumba reaffirmed Government’s commitment under the leadership of the President of the Republic of Zambia, Hakainde Hichilema to position tourism as a major economic driver. He stressed that the hospitality sub-sector remains central to achieving high-value tourism, contributing significantly to revenue generation, job creation and economic development.
The Minister further underscored the need for strong oversight, transparency and accountability within the sub-sector,noting that the Council’s role is both developmental and protective facilitating credible investment while safeguarding national interests and public confidence.
He also updated the Council on ongoing policy reforms within the Ministry, including proposed amendments to tourism legislation, the establishment of the Zambia Travel and Tourism Agency and the formation of a Travel and Hospitality Professional Association of Zambia. These initiatives aim to modernize the sector, strengthen institutional frameworks, and enhance coordination across the industry.
In line with Government’s digital transformation agenda, the Minister encouraged the Council to support the transition from manual systems to online platforms such as the Government Service Bus (GSB), to improve efficiency, transparency, and service delivery.
Speaking on behalf of the Council, HMRC Chairperson, Christabel Michel, expressed gratitude to Government for the trust placed in the Council and reaffirmed their commitment to delivering on their mandate.
“We are honoured by the confidence that has been placed in us and fully recognize the responsibility that comes with this appointment. As a Council, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of professionalism, strengthening regulatory compliance and contributing to the growth and competitiveness of Zambia’s hospitality sector,” she said.
Honourable. Sikumba assured the Council of the Ministry’s full support in executing its mandate and urged members to adopt a strategic and long-term approach in their work to enhance investor confidence and position Zambia as a preferred tourism destination.
The Minister concluded by expressing confidence in the Council’s ability to deliver on its mandate and called for continued collaboration to build a competitive, well-regulated and sustainable tourism sector that contributes meaningfully to national development.
