Zambia’s government is actively promoting Public - Private Partnerships (PPs) in tourism to spur sustainable growth, create jobs, and enhance the sector by leveraging private investment for better infrastructure, skills development and local supply chains, aligning with national goals for economic diversification and inclusive development.
Tourism Minister, Rodney Sikumba, has called for stronger government - industry collaboration to unlock sustainable growth and employment in the tourism industry.
On 14th December 2025 in Chilanga, a township located 20 km south of Zambia’s capital city Lusaka, the Minister, speaking at 20th anniversary of Sandy’s Creations said that private investment is vital for improving tourism products, strengthening local supply chains and supporting community development.
Pointing to Sandy’s Creations and Retail Park in Lusaka as a model, a large, nature - inspired destination started as a garden centre in 2025 and now featuring a hotel, apartments, conference centres, shops, restaurants, and wellness services, which aims to build capacity in hospitality, eco - tourism, fostering local ownership and global competitiveness, the minister noted that the business now employs up to 150 people directly and supports numerous aritsans, contractors and suppliers.
The minister stated that this model aligns with government priorities on sustainable tourism, renewable energy and domestic travel, helping position the Lusaka – Chilanga corridor as an emerging hub.
Company chair and co - founder Chris Findlay reflected on the venture’s growth as authorities signal closer public - private cooperation to scale quality, skills and jobs.
Key Aspects of Zambia’s Strategy for promoting Public - Private Partnerships:
• Stronger Collaboration: The government seeks deeper ties with the private sector to develop tourism products and strengthen local economies.
• Investment in Infrastructure: PPs are crucial for improving tourism facilities, including airports, to facilitate visitor access and disaster relief.
• Skills and Job Creation: Partnerships focus on training Zambians in hotel, management, culinary arts, and aviation to create quality employment.
• Sustainable and Inclusive Growth: The goal is to ensure tourism benefits local communities, promoting domestic travel like the “Holiday Yamu Loko”campaign, boosting local travel, with private tour operators playing a significant role, and supports biodiversity.
• Favourable Environment: The government commits to creating supportive policies and incentives for both local and international investors.
These efforts align with Zambia’s national development priorities, including job creation, human capital improvement, and climate resilience, with a focus on private sector - led growth for inclusive economic development.
Link
https://atta.travel/resource/zambia-backs-public-private-tourism-partnerships-to-expand-jobs.html
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