Govt identifies tourism and arts as basis for economic development

Govt identifies tourism and arts as basis for economic development

Mongu, March 14, 2013, ZANIS — Western Province Minister Obvious Mwaliteta says government has identified tourism and arts as a basis for economic and sustainable development for Zambia to achieve the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs).

 Mr. Mwaliteta said government attached great importance to the preparations for the United Nation World Tourism Organisation-UNWTO conference as it gives local artists an opportunity to show case some of the indigenous cultures in the province which includes traditional dances, traditional cuisine and handicrafts among others.

He said this in a speech read for him by Western Province Acting Deputy Permanent Secretary Namukolo Kamona at the official opening of the culture mini-festival held at Mongu Sport Stadium today.

Mr. Mwaliteta pointed out that the event is important in that it is meant to select groups that will represent the province at the UNWTO Conference which will be co-hosted by Zambia and Zimbabwe in August this year.

The UNWTO is committed to promoting tourism as an instrument in achieving the United Nations Millennium Development Goals geared towards reducing poverty and fostering sustainable development.