(Photo: Travel and Tour World)

When considering destinations that cater to halal-friendly travel, Zambia may not immediately come to mind; however, this is poised to change. The Halal Travel Network Mixer, in conjunction with The International Women in Travel & Tourism Forum (IWTTF), aims to initiate a dialogue regarding inclusive travel, investment prospects, and Zambia’s potential as a significant player in the halal tourism sector.

Scheduled for April 3rd at the Zambia High Commission in London, this event transcends mere networking. It serves as a critical assembly of travel industry leaders and innovators, all dedicated to enhancing the diversity, accessibility, and halal-friendliness of global tourism.

Anticipated Highlights of the Halal Travel Network Mixer

Attendees can expect an engaging fireside chat featuring prominent figures in the halal travel industry who will discuss the future of this sector. Hafsa Gaher, CEO of Halal Travel Network (HTN), will elaborate on Zambia’s initiatives in halal tourism, while Alessandra Alonso from IWTTF will provide updates on their strategic plans for 2025 in London and the Gulf region.

Participants will also have the opportunity to view a compelling video presentation that visually narrates Zambia’s halal tourism offerings, underscoring the nation’s commitment to fostering inclusive travel experiences.

This mixer presents an excellent opportunity for networking over refreshments, allowing professionals from the halal and inclusive tourism sectors to connect, foster collaborations, and explore new avenues within Zambia’s developing halal tourism market.

Zambia’s Halal Tourism: A Model for Sustainable Development

(Photo: UN Tourism)

Zambia is making significant advancements in halal tourism, with a renewed emphasis on attracting halal-conscious travelers. The country is actively developing halal-certified accommodations, safari lodges, and dining options to meet the increasing demand.

At the Asia Islamic Tourism & Trade Expo 2024, Twaambo C. Kayombo, Zambia’s Second Secretary of Tourism, emphasized the nation’s commitment to sustainable and halal tourism, inviting investors to explore opportunities within Zambia’s Northern Circuit. “Our objective is to position Zambia as the premier destination for both tourists and investors in our dynamic tourism sector,” stated Kayombo.

Furthermore, Shahid Yousuf Adam, Director of Orient Travel and Tours Zambia, highlighted the hospitality sector’s adaptation to create Sharia-compliant environments, ensuring that Muslim travelers feel welcomed and comfortable. “Zambia is evolving in response to the global demand for halal tourism, and we are dedicated to providing environments that fully comply with Sharia law, thereby making it an attractive destination for Muslim tourists,” Adam remarked.

Geographically situated in the heart of Southern Africa, Zambia is a landlocked nation renowned for its expansive wilderness, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Home to the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Zambia offers breathtaking landscapes and exhilarating adventure activities, including white-water rafting and bungee jumping.

The country is endowed with 20 national parks and 34 game management areas, serving as a sanctuary for a wide array of wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffaloes. Zambia’s pristine rivers and lakes, such as the Zambezi and Lake Tanganyika, provide ideal settings for fishing, boating, and birdwatching.

Zambia’s proactive approach to halal tourism presents a unique opportunity for stakeholders to engage with the country’s vision on April 3rd.

IWTTF: A Catalyst for Inclusive Travel

(Photo: IWTTF)

The IWTTF is committed to amplifying the voices of underrepresented groups within the travel industry. Founded by Alessandra Alonso, the forum is at the forefront of creating leadership, entrepreneurship, and employment opportunities for women and marginalized communities in travel.

With nearly two decades of experience in transforming the industry, Alonso is a staunch advocate for gender diversity and inclusive travel, positioning IWTTF as a pivotal entity in this discourse. In 2004, she co-founded Shine, an organization dedicated to promoting gender diversity, and initiated the Shine Awards to recognize women’s achievements in travel, tourism, and hospitality.

Through collaborations with the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and KPMG, her commitment to empowering women led to the establishment of Women in Travel CIC in 2017, which has since emerged as a pioneering force in the industry.

While Alonso may not focus exclusively on halal travel, her mission to enhance inclusivity in travel aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the event. Her insights are anticipated to be particularly enlightening.

Original Article:

Halal Travel Network. (n.d.). Zambia expanding on halal tourism – What you need to know & how to get involved.Retrieved from https://halaltravel.network/blog/zambia-expanding-on-halal-tourism-e28093-what-you-need-to-know-how-to-get-involved?locale=en