HH protests lifting of licensed killing of lions

United Party for National Development (UPND) President Hakainde Hichilema says the first step in creating a viable and sustainable tourism industry in Zambia is protecting the wildlife and preserving natural resources.

Mr Hichilema in his weekly policy issue says allowing licensed killing of lions and leopards will deny future generations the opportunity to see these species.

He notes that government has also not addressed the issues raised by then Minister of Tourism Sylvia Masebo at the time he banned the hunting of lions such as corruption.

Mr Hichilema questions how government will effectively monitor the vast areas in the wilderness and determine which frail and elderly animals to be killed as suggested by Tourism Minister Jean Kapata.

He further questions how government will guarantee that poachers with fake hunting licenses will not abuse the system
Mr Hichilema says animals in the game park belong to all Zambians, and as such the benefits accrued from revenue generated from proper game management should be spread to all Zambians, living and yet to be born.

He adds that the UPND also places great value on the potential for opening the tourism sector up to create much needed jobs and revenues.

Mr Hichilema states that the UPND in government will encourage wildlife conservation in order to protect animals and their habitat for prosperity.

He further states that the UPND Government will open up the tourism sector as a priority, through a combination of regulatory reforms, tax incentives and training initiative, such as reduced or zero-rated VAT.