Minister of Tourism and Arts says the tourism industry has lost 6 million, Nine hundred and Ninety Nine thousand, Nine hundred and six US dollars in revenue resulting from cancellation of tourists due to Covid-19 outbreak.
Speaking at a Media briefing, Ronald Chitotela disclosed that the country has seen an increase in loss of revenue by 21 percent.
Mr. Chitotela said Southern Province alone has suffered revenue loss resulting from the cancellations amounting to One million Nine hundred and Ninety One thousand, one hundred and Seventeen US dollars.
“When I say a loss this is as a resulting of cancellation by our tourists and those that booked, requesting a pay back,” Mr. Chitotela said.
He added that Eastern Province which encompasses the South Luangwa National Park has been hit most as it has recorded revenue loss amounting to Three million, Five hundred and Eighty one thousand, Seven hundred and Ninety Three US dollars, while Lusaka Province has seen 425, 296 US dollars.
“Central Province which houses Kafue National park has seen loss of revenue amounting to 600, 000 US dollars. Total revenue loss is 6 million, Nine hundred and Ninety Nine thousand, nine hundred and six US dollars,” Mr. Chitotela said.
Mr. Chitotela said this had adverse effects on the treasury because some tourists made payments in advance and were demanding repayment.
And Mr. Chitotela thanked the Germany government for facilitating the smooth movement of its citizens who came as tourists and were stranded in Zambia but could not connect because of a lockdown by neighboring countries.
