World Bank Allocates $2.8M for Zambian Tourism Development

The World Bank has released $2.8 million to the Zambian government to conduct feasibility studies in key tourism development areas. This funding marks the first instalment of a $100 million loan provided by the World Bank, to be disbursed over seven years.

Tourism Permanent Secretary Evans Muhanga emphasised that the initial $2.8 million is just the beginning. "This is the first disbursement aimed at identifying and improving existing infrastructure in our tourism hotspots," Muhanga stated.

Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba highlighted the importance of infrastructure development in boosting tourism. "One of the major projects under consideration is the road network in Livingstone. Enhancing this will have an immediate positive impact on tourism," Sikumba noted.

During a visit to Livingstone, World Bank Managing Director and Group Chief Administrative Officer to Zambia, Wencai Zhang, expressed optimism about the future of Zambian tourism. "We are looking forward to implementing projects that will support tourism development in Zambia by 2030," Zhang said.

Zhang also praised the Mukuni Park Curio Market, a project financed by the World Bank 15 years ago, which continues to benefit local traders. "It’s gratifying to see the long-term benefits that our investment has brought to the community," he added.

The commitment from the World Bank and the Zambian government signals a significant step towards bolstering the country’s tourism sector, promising substantial economic growth and development.