Zambia community tourism benefits all

Cultural tourism in Zambia has placed tourist revenue directly in the hands of entrepreneurs, boosting the country’s economy and uplifting communities.
Zambia Travel News said priority had been placed on directing profits back into communities, with the advantage of individual enterprises such as crafts sellers, guides and Mokoro polers receiving proceeds directly.
Community tourism products in Zambia include locally run facilities such as campsites, rustic accommodation, restaurants, cafes and bars. While local guides offer their services on every conceivable kind of safari, tourists are encouraged to visit traditional villages to meet with leaders and elders, see development projects and shop for local crafts.
Projects include the Kasanka Trust which manages the Kasanka National Park on behalf of the community, where some 40 locals are employed while local schools and a clinic directly benefit. Other efforts include the Siachitema Community Camp, Mwanachingwala Conservation Area, Muwele Cultural Village, Kawaza Village Project and the Mukuni Craft Centre.