Kasune Urges Traditional Leaders To Make Culture A Driver Of Tourism Growth

Minister of Tourism Princess Kasune has called for stronger partnerships between Government, traditional leaders and local communities to use Zambia’s cultural heritage as a driver of tourism growth and community development.

Speaking as Guest of Honour at the 2026 Ikubi Lya Malumbe Traditional Ceremony of Chief Chibuluma in Mumbwa District on Sunday, 1 November, Ms Kasune said traditional ceremonies were important not only for preserving cultural identity but also for creating economic opportunities.

Held under the theme, “Culture to Help Accelerate Development,” the ceremony brought together communities to celebrate their heritage and shared values. Ms Kasune said cultural traditions were a valuable national resource that could support the Government’s Grow Zambia Agenda and improve livelihoods.

She reaffirmed Government’s commitment, under President Hakainde Hichilema’s leadership, to working with traditional leaders to promote cultural ceremonies and strengthen their contribution to national development.

The Minister also urged traditional leaders and communities to support the national ambition of attracting five million tourists, saying cultural events could help draw visitors while creating opportunities for local businesses. She noted that such gatherings also promote peace, unity and a sense of shared identity.

Turning to development in Chibuluma Chiefdom, Ms Kasune highlighted several Government interventions, including the completion of an outpatient department block at Kabalwa, construction of a maternity annex at Nakanjoli and a staff house at Chipa. She also cited investments in classroom infrastructure and additional desks.

Other projects include a 60,000-litre solar-powered water scheme in Chibolyo, eight boreholes drilled in Chibolyo and Nalusanga, and two communication towers awaiting commissioning.

Ms Kasune further said Government had established three irrigation schemes through the Constituency Development Fund in Mumba, Mulendema and Chibuluma chiefdoms. The schemes are expected to be managed by 18 community cooperatives and directly benefit more than 500 people.

She encouraged women and young people to take advantage of Government-supported initiatives to improve their livelihoods, adding that preserving cultural traditions should go hand in hand with embracing opportunities for development.

Ms Kasune commended Chief Chibuluma and the organising committee for hosting the ceremony, and called for continued cooperation among Government, traditional leaders and communities to advance development through cultural pride, peace and unity.