The UN Tourism Secretariat, through Executive Director Ms. Natalia Bayona and Regional Director for Africa Ms. Elcia Grandcourt, extended their warm congratulations and full support to Hon. Rodney Sikumba, Minister of Tourism for the Republic of Zambia, on his recent election as Chairperson of the UN Tourism Regional Commission for Africa (CAF). This milestone was officially recognized following the 68th Session of the Commission held from 11th to 13 th June 2025, in Abuja, Federal Republic of Nigeria.
In their meeting, the Secretariat reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with Hon. Sikumba as he assumes his leadership role, which will play a pivotal part in shaping Africa’s tourism agenda. This includes aligning with the strategic priorities identified in the recent UN Tourism Member States Survey, which informs the Programme of Work for 2026–2027, building up to what has already been achieved. The Survey cites top priorities for Destinations in Africa which include and are not limited to the following:
➢ Human Capital Development;
➢ Developing Infrastructure, superstructure and tourism sites;
➢ Attracting investments in tourism;
➢ Enhancing promotion, branding, and positioning of the destination;
➢ Reviewing, improving and enforcing tourism legal and regulatory frameworks;
➢ Protecting and managing natural resource, promotion of greener practises;
➢ Mitigating and adapting to climate change;
➢ Destination marketing (accessing new markets)
➢ Promoting sustainable development of tourism.
Both parties underscored the importance of addressing additional pressing issues such as air connectivity, safety, health and security among others as measures to unlock the full potential of the African tourism sector. Under Zambia’s leadership, and with the collaborative efforts of African Member States, there is a shared vision to foster a tourism industry that is more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable positioning Africa as a leading destination globally.
At the same session, Zambia was unanimously elected to Chair the Regional Commission, alongside:
• Hon. Mrs. Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Arts, Culture, Tourism and Creative Economy of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
• Hon. Mr. Marcio de Jesus Lopes Daniel, Minister of Hotels and Tourism of the Republic of Angola
Both will serve as Vice Chairpersons of the Commission.
In addition, Zambia secured a significant victory by being re-elected amid strong competition to the UN Tourism Executive Council, the organization’s key governing body responsible for ensuring that its global mandate is effectively implemented.
This dual recognition reflects Zambia’s growing leadership and influence in shaping the future of tourism across Africa
