Home » TOURISM NEWS » Zambia And Italy Forge Unstoppable Tourism Bond With Groundbreaking Culinary Partnership: All You Need To Know
Published on
November 23, 2025
On 25th November 2025, Zambia and Italy will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) which will considerably enhance their tourism and cultural relations. Under the MoU, the Ministers of Tourism of Zambia, Rodney Sikumba, and the Italian Ambassador to Zambia, Enrico De Agostini, will put their signatures to the agreement. The MoU aims at a closer connection through the two international communities by making it easier for them to share their culinary traditions and also through increasing the movement of travelers back and forth.
This landmark initiative comes after the 10th edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, held in Lusaka, where the Minister highlighted the importance of such collaborations in promoting tourism. Through this agreement, the two countries aim to attract more Italian tourists to Zambia, while simultaneously encouraging Zambians to explore the cultural richness of Italy. The collaboration is poised to facilitate not only tourism but also a cultural exchange, fostering a deeper bond between the two nations.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations through Culinary Tourism
The primary focus of the MoU is the integration of Italian culinary practices into Zambia’s tourism industry. Minister Sikumba emphasised that by learning from Italy’s established culinary tourism framework, Zambia could improve its offerings and attract a growing number of international visitors. This partnership will create a fusion of Zambian and Italian culinary experiences, ultimately enhancing the appeal of both countries as tourist destinations.
By combining Italy’s renowned food culture with Zambia’s diverse local traditions, this collaboration is expected to serve as a powerful tool in boosting tourism. Tourists often seek unique, immersive experiences, and this fusion of culinary arts will provide just that. The MoU will encourage not only gastronomic tourism but also create opportunities for Zambian chefs and food producers to gain valuable international exposure, showcasing the nation’s rich food culture on a global platform.
Educational Collaboration and Skill Development
As part of the MoU, Italian culinary expertise will play a pivotal role in developing local talent. In a bid to bridge the gap between Italian and Zambian food cultures, the Italian Ambassador invited 10 students from the Zambia Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) to receive training under the guidance of a renowned Italian chef. This initiative will allow these students to gain practical knowledge in Italian food production, thus enhancing their skills and potentially making them ambassadors of this fusion of culinary practices in Zambia’s tourism sector.
This exchange will serve as a valuable educational opportunity, helping the students learn not only about Italian culinary traditions but also about the broader dynamics of international tourism. The exposure will equip them with the necessary skills to cater to the increasing demand for high-quality culinary experiences in Zambia, benefiting the country’s hospitality industry in the long run.
Promoting Reciprocal Travel and Cultural Diplomacy
In addition to culinary tourism, the MoU will also encourage reciprocal travel between Zambia and Italy, a crucial step in fostering greater cultural understanding. The partnership is expected to serve as a diplomatic bridge, enhancing the two nations’ ties through the mutual appreciation of each other’s cultures. Both nations recognise the diplomatic value of cultural exchanges, and through initiatives like the Italian Week in Zambia, Italy is able to present its rich heritage to a Zambian audience.
Ambassador De Agostini stressed that the Italian Week and its focus on cuisine play a vital role in diplomacy, helping to create and reinforce strong relationships. These cultural exchanges provide a platform for identifying local talent in the arts, which can further strengthen the bond between Zambia and Italy. The event not only showcases Italy’s culinary heritage but also allows for Zambian artists and performers to share their own unique talents, enriching both cultures.
The Role of Tourism in Zambia’s Economic Growth
Zambia’s tourism sector has long been a vital component of the country’s economic development. By fostering partnerships such as the MoU with Italy, Zambia is positioning itself as a prime destination for international tourists seeking authentic, culturally rich experiences. The infusion of Italian culinary expertise into Zambia’s tourism sector is expected to bring about a surge in tourists, particularly from Italy and Europe, boosting the country’s economy through increased tourist spending and investment in the hospitality industry.
The growth of culinary tourism is also set to complement Zambia’s existing tourist attractions, such as its world-famous national parks, the Victoria Falls, and its vibrant cultural heritage. By weaving in the culinary angle, Zambia hopes to offer tourists an even richer, more diversified experience, which will ultimately contribute to the country’s long-term tourism goals.
A Future of Closer Collaboration
The signing of the MoU marks the beginning of a promising chapter in Zambia’s relationship with Italy. It is clear that both nations stand to benefit immensely from this partnership, with tourism, education, and cultural exchange serving as the main pillars of this collaboration. The MoU is expected to open new avenues for tourism professionals, culinary experts, and local businesses, while also ensuring that Zambia’s growing tourism sector receives the global recognition it deserves.
Dining and Cooking