Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
UPND President Hakainde Hichilema
UPND President Hakainde Hichilema has observed the need to promote the tourism sector to international audiences by strengthening the Zambian Tourism Board.
In a statement to QFM News today, the UPND Leader believes that if this sector is promoted, the nation can earn some revenues.
Mr. Hichilema says Zambia has unique attractions that his administration if voted into office can use to increase visitor traffic.
He says there is also need to address visa issues so that people can come in numbers, while supporting Zambian entities in the hospitality industry to attain international standards.
He explains that in Zambia the contribution of tourism has remained fairly consistent at around 3% of GDP but the potential for much more is clear and government can open up the sector.
Mr. Hichilema says practical actions that the nation need to take to unlock the potential of the tourism sector include: working with airlines to set up new direct flights to Zambia; support for training initiatives that provide youths with the right skill-set for working in the industry; increased protection of national parks and wildlife; support for Zambian SMEs and start-ups working in the sector through mentorship programs; and, improved access to capital.