Government has commended African Parks on its consistent and transformative conservation and tourism development that has led to sustainable resource utilisation and reduced dependency on unsustainable practices.
Speaking during a stakeholder engagement in Lusaka, Minister of Tourism, Rodney Sikumba, said that African Parks continued investment in tourism, has strengthened the sector, while allowing the government to channel its resources to social protection services.
“African Parks committed to investing $20 million over a 20-year period. impressively, within just five years, over $34 million has already been invested – surpassing the initial commitment,” he said.
Mr Sikumba added that government is equally committed to addressing infrastructure gaps in road and air transport in order to unlock the full potential of the northern and southern tourism circuits.
He mentioned that the government has implemented a multi-sectoral policy framework aimed at enhancing community beneficiation so that local communities can share the wealth of natural resources through employment, business opportunities, and sustainable development initiatives.
African Parks Chief Operating Officer, Charles Wells recognised that Zambia has demonstrated prudent leadership by setting aside a substantial proportion of its land for conservation through national parks, game management areas, forest reserves and protected wetlands.
Mr Wells added that his institution is ready to continue working with the Government to apply proven approaches, scale what works, and ensure that conservation delivers lasting ecological, social, and economic value.
Meanwhile, Barotse Royal Establishment Representative, Induna Mundandwe, who is also one of the area chiefs in Liuwa, recognised that the coming of African Parks in the area has promoted community involvement in tourism through establishment of campsites for tourists who go to visit the Liuwa Park.
Induna Mundandwe also said that his area has been practicing traditional fishing methods, which is also unique and attracts tourists in the area.
Sounds good. Who are they, why are they investing, and how do they get a return on their investment? Provide a flow diagram using USD absolute values please