Minister of Tourism Rodney Sikumba has announced that Zambia will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Italy on November 25, 2025, aimed at strengthening culinary and tourism collaboration between the two nations.
Speaking to the media on the sidelines of the 10th Edition of the Week of Italian Cuisine in the World, held in Lusaka recently, Mr. Sikumba said the agreement will help attract more Italian tourists to Zambia and encourage reciprocal travel.
He said the MoU is also expected to deepen cultural and diplomatic ties between the two countries.
“We have a pivot to learn what the Italians are doing and how they are pushing tourism. I strongly believe we have a lot to learn from our colleagues from Italy and create more fusion, but more so on the bilateral side, because what creates a bond between two countries is purely the fusion of two cultures, thereby creating the bond of friendship,” he said.
Mr. Sikumba also revealed that Italian Ambassador to Zambia Enrico De Agostini has invited 10 students from the Zambia Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Studies (ZITHS) to train under a renowned Italian chef currently visiting the country.
He explained that the hands-on experience will help the students gain deeper knowledge of Italian culinary techniques and food production.
Speaking at the same event, Ambassador De Agostini underscored the diplomatic significance of the Italian Cuisine Week, describing it as a platform that extends beyond food to strengthen relations between Italy and Zambia.
He said the annual celebration showcases Italian culture to Zambian audiences while helping identify and promote Zambian talent in the arts and creative industries.
According to the Ambassador, such cultural exchanges build “an unbreakable bond” between the two countries, enhancing cooperation in tourism, cuisine, and broader diplomatic relations.
Picture: Rodney Sikumba