All roads lead to the Mulungushi International Conference Centre (MICC), in Lusaka, as Zambia gears up to host one of Africa’s most anticipated tourism events – the Zambia Travel Expo (ZATEX) 2025 – from 5 to 7 June 2025.
Under the theme, “Sustainable Tourism: Driving Inclusive Growth,” ZATEX 2025 promises an engaging three-day programme designed to bring together tourism professionals, policy-makers, investors, and consumers from across Africa and beyond.
The expo kicks off tomorrow with a packed schedule that includes the Hosted Buyers Programme, Business-to-Business (B2B) Speed Dating, dynamic Knowledge Sessions, Industry Exhibitions, and an Official Opening Ceremony expected to be graced by none other than His Excellency Mr Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, on 6 June 2025.
A major highlight of ZATEX 2025 will be the high-level panel discussion on “Unlocking Inclusive Economic Growth Through Sustainable Tourism and Investment.” This timely conversation will delve into actionable strategies to ensure the tourism sector not only recovers but thrives in a post-pandemic era through inclusive, green growth models.
Further enriching the discourse, breakaway sessions will explore key industry issues such as:
• Leveraging Digital Innovation for Destination Marketing and Tourism Development
• Tourism Data and Statistics: Leveraging Insights for Growth
• Strengthening Air Connectivity to Boost Tourism
• Positioning Brand Africa: Destination Marketing for a Competitive and Sustainable Tourism Sector
Additionally, knowledge sessions will tackle emerging trends such as eco-friendly and conservation-focused tourism, as well as a plenary on professionalising the sector titled: “Professionalism in Practice: Uniting for a Future-Ready Tourism Sector Through Skills, Standards, and Strategic Campaigns.”
ZATEX 2025 has carved out space for Tourism Education, with a Fireside Chat titled: “Bridging the Gap: From Classroom to Career in Tourism and Hospitality” – offering young professionals and students, practical insights into navigating the industry.
Another engaging breakout session will examine “Unlocking the Potential of MICE Tourism for Sustainable Destination Growth,” a topic gaining traction as countries seek to attract Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions tourism to diversify their offerings.
The expo will wrap up in spectacular fashion with a Consumer Day filled with exciting exhibitions, cultural showcases, entertainment, and tourism-related activations for the general public. This day is aimed at promoting domestic tourism and encouraging Zambians to discover the beauty and richness of their own backyard.
A grand Gala Dinner will also be held, offering an ideal networking opportunity for stakeholders to celebrate the successes and partnerships forged during the event.
ZATEX 2025 is more than an event; it’s a platform for Pan-African collaboration, economic opportunity and the reimagining of tourism as a key driver for sustainable development and inclusive prosperity.
