Zambia Tourism Shocker as Matongo Matamwandi Departs After Leading Historic Growth — What This Means for the Future of Destination Zambia!

Zambia Tourism has entered a new era of leadership following the departure of Matongo Matamwandi, who concluded his impactful three‑year tenure as Chief Executive Officer of the Zambia Tourism Agency (ZTA). Matamwandi’s exit caps one of the most transformative periods in the history of Zambia’s tourism sector, reshaping how the nation is positioned as a travel destination at home and on the global stage.

A Trailblazing Chapter in Zambia’s Tourism Story

Since his appointment in early 2022, Matongo Matamwandi has steered the Zambia Tourism Agency through an era of remarkable expansion and strategic reform. Under his leadership, Zambia saw a substantial rebound from travel sector disruption caused by the global pandemic, with international visitor arrivals rising sharply, significantly enhancing the nation’s profile among global travellers. The ZTA CEO’s departure is confirmed by multiple tourism media outlets, reflecting the official end of his leadership cycle. Matamwandi’s imprint on Destination Zambia’s global reputation will be felt well beyond his tenure, with government sources indicating that his work aligns with Zambia’s broader economic and tourism goals as set by the Ministry of Tourism.

Driving Tourism Growth and National Development

During the past three years, Zambia’s tourism industry has steadily climbed out of the disruptions of the COVID‑19 era. International arrivals doubled during Matamwandi’s leadership, a remarkable turnaround that boosted foreign exchange earnings and revitalised local tourism businesses. Local travel initiatives were also a central focus, with campaigns designed to stimulate domestic tourism and data showing growing engagement in local travel experiences. This growth was backed by policy frameworks championed by the Ministry of Tourism of Zambia, which seeks to elevate tourism as a key pillar of national development, diversification and economic resilience.

Landmark Initiatives and Strategic Platforms

One of Matamwandi’s noteworthy achievements was the launch and scaling of the Zambia Travel Expo (ZATEX). This platform unified local operators, international buyers and travel influencers, enabling small and medium tourism enterprises to showcase their offerings and forge new partnerships. Another major strategic initiative was the YAMULOKO domestic tourism campaign, which encouraged Zambians to explore their own country’s natural and cultural heritage. By elevating local travel demand, this initiative helped diversify revenue streams for suppliers and fostered a more resilient domestic tourism market. Matamwandi also launched the Tourism Excellence Awards, an industry‑wide recognition programme aimed at encouraging higher service standards and rewarding exceptional performance. This recognition scheme bolstered Zambia’s service quality on safari experiences, adventure trails and hospitality operations.

Championing Zambia on the Global Stage

Beyond domestic efforts, Matamwandi placed strong emphasis on international brand building. He spearheaded multiple global marketing and communications campaigns, raising Zambia’s visibility in key source markets — notably across Europe and North America. Highlights included market showcases at prestigious travel fairs and partnerships with prominent travel media and distribution platforms to elevate Zambia’s appeal as both an adventure and wildlife destination. His proactive engagement with diaspora communities underscored a broader strategy to galvanise Zambia’s global network in support of tourism and investment opportunities. Matamwandi urged Zambians abroad to actively promote their homeland as a top tourism and business destination.

Reflecting on a Leadership Legacy

In media interactions prior to his departure, Matamwandi described his time as CEO as one of the most demanding in his career, but also deeply rewarding. His reflection captures the intensity and purpose of his assignment — from rebuilding tourism momentum to driving structural reforms in marketing and stakeholder engagement.

His leadership also intersected with broader national policy agendas, including visa facilitation and tourism‑friendly reforms championed by government ministries to make Zambia more accessible to international travellers.

What Comes Next for ZTA

At present, the Zambia Tourism Agency is in transition. While an official successor to Matamwandi has not yet been publicly confirmed through Zambia’s government communications channels, authorities are reportedly considering a set of internal and external candidates to continue the momentum. Formal announcements are expected in the coming weeks. This period of leadership change comes at a time when Zambia’s tourism sector is gaining traction regionally and internationally. The alignment between ZTA’s goals and the Ministry of Tourism ensures continuity of strategic priorities, including sustainable tourism growth, enhanced global visibility, and stronger domestic market activation.

Zambia’s Tourism Outlook: Steady and Strategic

Zambia remains one of Africa’s most compelling travel destinations, famed for its rich biodiversity, untamed wilderness and spectacular natural attractions such as Victoria Falls and diverse national parks. With wildlife, culture and adventure tourism contributing significantly to the economic tapestry, the sector continues to hold strong promise for future expansion, community benefit and economic contribution.

As the ZTA prepares for its next phase, stakeholders in the private and public sectors alike are watching closely. The foundations laid by Matamwandi — from strategic branding to inclusive industry platforms — are expected to serve as key launchpads for the agency’s next leadership chapter.

Final Takeaway

Matongo Matamwandi’s departure from the Zambia Tourism Agency marks both a symbolic and strategic transition for Destination Zambia. His tenure redefined the country’s tourism narrative and positioned Zambia as a resilient, vibrant and globally recognised travel destination. With forward‑looking policy support from the government and renewed leadership momentum, Zambia’s tourism industry is set to navigate its next frontier of growth.

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