By Derrick Silimina

Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has issued three key Statutory Instruments aimed at strengthening wildlife conservation and promoting sustainable tourism development in the country.

In a statement, Sikumba said the issuance of the SIs is expected to strengthen biodiversity conservation and reduce illegal wildlife activities, enhance Zambia’s compliance with international conservation standards, boost investor and tourist confidence in Zambia’s tourism sector, promote lesser-known destinations such as Muchinga Province, support community participation and livelihoods through eco-tourism.

“These measures are designed to safeguard Zambia’s wildlife and heritage resources while ensuring that tourism continues to grow in a sustainable and responsible manner,” Sikumba said.

He reiterated that the Ministry of Tourism remains committed to implementing policies that protect Zambia’s natural assets while unlocking their full potential for national development.

Sikumba noted that the site, which features four major cascades and diverse wildlife, is expected to attract increased tourism and support eco-tourism development in the region.

“The regulations also enforce the use of professional hunters, strict quota systems and mandatory monitoring programmes to ensure sustainable wildlife management.”

These include: SI No. 18 of 2026 – Declares Mutinondo Falls in Muchinga Province a National Monument, recognising its rich biodiversity, scenic beauty and cultural significance, SI No. 19 of 2026 – Introduces strengthened regulations on lion and leopard trophy hunting, including the prohibition of hunting young, female and pride lions, as well as banning the use of electronic call-up devices, live bait and sedatives.

The other is SI No. 20 of 2026 – Amends regulations relating to the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) by improving definitions, permit validity periods, inspection procedures and oversight of wildlife trade. The changes strengthen Zambia’s ability to regulate imports, exports and re-exports of wildlife specimens.