Ministry of Tourism and Arts Permanent Secretary Patrick Lungu has implored Zambians in the Diaspora to invest in the tourism sector, stating that the sector has huge potential to contribute to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and create jobs.
Mr Lungu was speaking when he addressed Zambians in the Diaspora during a virtual town hall meeting on Investment in Zambia’s Tourism sector, a diaspora perspective, organized by the Zambia High Commission UK in partnership with Zambians Together, Zambian Business Club (CIC) and the ZamOxbridge.
Mr Lungu said there is need for Zambians in the diaspora to take advantage of investment opportunities by investing in the booming tourism sector.
“To the Zambians in the diaspora take advantage of these opportunities. You are better placed to acquire land and set up viable business enterprises. The expertise, knowledge and linkages you have gained put you in good stead to support the development of the tourism sector,” he said.
He said Government was committed to ensuring that the policy and regulatory environment favor’s both domestic and foreign investments.
Mr Lungu said that the Government was counting on Zambians in the diaspora to set up good infrastructures that would make the hospitality industry attractive.
The PS explained that Government has come up with a deliberate policy to upgrade infrastructure like airports and build new roads to open opportunities for investment.
And Zambia’s High Commissioner to the United Kingdom Lieutenant General Paul Mihova said tourism has been identified by the government as one of the top economic sectors on the development agenda.
Meanwhile Department of National Parks and Wildlife Director, Dr Chuma Simukonda said tourism can become an important driver of socio-economic growth over the next decade.
