Japan has granted funding of up to K11.6 million to the Livingstone Museum, in a bid to enhance the country’s national heritage and promote environmental sustainability. The funding will be utilized to upgrade the museum’s equipment needed for educational programs, exhibitions, research, documentation, and conservation of collections.
The agreement was signed in Lusaka by Finance and National Planning Minister Dr. Situmbeko Musokotwane, MP, and Japanese Ambassador to Zambia H.E. Takeuchi Kazuyuki. The initiative will be implemented by the National Museum Board on behalf of the Government of the Republic of Zambia, and will be provided through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) over a period of two years, from 2023 to 2025.
The Livingstone Museum is an important cultural center in Zambia, housing a collection of exhibits that tell the story of the country’s history and heritage. The grant will allow the museum to procure essential equipment such as projectors, cameras, laptops and computers, and biological microscopes. The funds will also be used to cover payments to suppliers and contractors and consultants under the project.
The Japanese grant comes at a time when Zambia is embarking on revamping and further developing its tourism sector. In the next five years, selected parts of the country will be developed by establishing infrastructure needed to make them more attractive for high-value tourism investment.
Nsumbu National Park in Nsama district, Liuwa National Park in Kalabo district, and the source of the Zambezi River in Ikelenge district have been earmarked for development. Potential investment opportunities in these areas include the establishment of hotels, lodges, conference facilities, tour operations, and other tourism facilities.
Through the implementation of this project, the Zambian government and supporting partners hope to make a real socio-economic desirable impact in the sector. The project will go a long way in alleviating poverty levels through employment creation.
Japan has been a supportive partner to Zambia for over 50 years, providing financial support for key sectors such as education, health, infrastructure, environment, and water. This latest grant will be a significant boost to the Livingstone Museum and will help to promote national unity, peace, and environmental sustainability.
