Tourism and Arts Permanent Secretary Dr. Howard Sikwela says his Ministry’s move to upgrade Longres Lodge into a Five Star Hotel estimated at US$212 million is meant to increase occupancy a create new jobs in the sector.

Speaking at his office this morning when Hillary Zebron, the project consultant presented the Final Feasibility Study Report for the mixed development project comprising a Five Star and Three Star Hotel, Dr. Sikwela said the Public Private Partnership arrangement will help achieve the government dream of diversifying into tourism.

Dr. Sikwela says one the project comes into actualization also contribute to the much needed conference facilities in Zambia.

And Mr. Zebron says the Hotel will have a 2, 000 capacity State of the Art Conference Facility, lifestyle Centre comprising retail shops, blue chip offices, serviced apartments for international business persons and tourists.

He says the project will also have a lifestyle Centre with upper tie restaurants, coffee shops and health spa with under pools and basement parking.

This is contained in a statement issued to Money FM News by Ministry of Tourism and Arts Public Relations Officer Sakabilo Kalembwe.