The World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) has lauded the efforts by the Zambian Government towards the promotion and sustainable practices of its tourism sector.
In a meeting with the President of the Republic of Zambia H.E Edgar Lungu at the state house in Lusaka, the Secretary General of UNWTO Ambassador Zurab Pololikashvili said he was impressed with the efforts and strategies put in place by the government to recognize and champion tourism in the national agenda. He added that tourism presents the best opportunity to touching lives of the People.
He among other things mentioned the leadership role of Zambia at the UNWTO especially the work of former minister H.E. Charles Banda in his capacity as chair of UNWTO Executive Council.
The UN Tourism Boss presented a plaque from the organization to the head of state in recognition of his role in championing sustainable and responsible Tourism in Zambia.
President Lungu thanked the UNWTO for its support and role in helping Zambia achieve its strategic objective of the tourism sector. He committed to the ethics and upholding the best practices in ensuring tourism is well managed.
He added that, tourism is a national priority for his government because of the power of the sector to create employments and wealth for the people. The President further commented on the importance to advocate on the issues of climate changes that are impacting on the continent and worldwide.
President Lungu emphasized on the need to manage human and animal conflicts that are affecting many countries on the continent.
H.E Lungu reached out to the UN Tourism Agency to help Zambia to promote its tourism and in attracting investors to the country.
The Country’s new Minister of Tourism and Arts H.E. Ronald Chitotela assured the Secretary General of the continued support of Zambia towards his administration. He also pledged to work with stakeholders to revive the cultural and tourism products of Zambia.
The Secretary General’s delegation included Director of Africa Department Elcia Grandcourt and Senior Business Transformation and Reforms Officer Musalim Afandiyev
Zambia’s Ambassador to UNWTO and France Dr Christine Kaseba-Sata, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism were also present to accompany the Secretary General and his delegation to the state House
