Powering MICE in Zambia

“ZAMBIA continues to position itself as an emerging and highly attractive destination for conferences, incentives, meetings and events due to its political stability, warm hospitality, natural beauty and growing tourism infrastructure,” says Peter Tichy, GM at Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa- Tunya Livingstone Resort. Clients wanting to host events or conferences in Zambia have two Radisson Blu properties to choose from, one in Lusaka and one in Livingstone. Both have fully equipped conferencing facilities and diverse itinerary options. Radisson Blu Mosi-Oa-Tunya Livingstone Resort caters for intimate executive meetings, incentive groups, large-scale conferences, social events and destination weddings. “Our conferencing facilities include modern indoor meeting rooms, executive boardrooms, outdoor event spaces overlooking the Zambezi River and flexible banquet set-ups,” says Tichy. The hotel can accommodate groups from 10 to 250 guests, in several different styles. At Radisson Blu Hotel Lusaka conferencing facilities include 11 flexible meeting and event spaces, including boardrooms, meeting rooms, domes and a ballroom. “The hotel’s largest venue is the Big Dome Ballroom, which accommodates up to 450 guests in theatre style,” says Dino Urbani, GM at Radisson Blu Hotel, Lusaka. “Total event space is approximately 1 149 sqm, suitable for conferences, exhibitions, gala dinners and corporate events.” Technology Both properties are equipped with modern audiovisual and connectivity solutions to support professional events. Venues include high speed Wi-Fi connectivity, built-in projection systems and screens, wireless microphones and sound systems, LED screens and display capabilities, video conferencing support, flexible lighting configurations and on-site technical assistance. Memorable The Livingstone property is just an 11-minute drive from Victoria Falls, giving it a unique advantage in that delegates can combine business with a visit or two to the unforgettable Unesco World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls – the largest curtain of falling water in the world, over 1,7 km wide, where the Zambezi plunges over 100m into the gorge below. “Delegates are increasingly looking for destinations that provide more than just meeting spaces, they want authentic, memorable experiences,” says Tichy. Delegates at Livingstone Resort will also enjoy sunset river cruises, safari experiences, cultural and heritage activities, adventure tourism experiences, outdoor gala dinners and themed events, and wellness and relaxation experiences. At Lusaka, conference and event travellers can include activities such as visits to local markets, cultural villages, conservation projects, school or community support initiatives and local artisan experiences. Green Key Sustainability is integrated through the hotel’s Green Key certification and Radisson Hotel Group’s Sustainable Stays programme, according to Urbani. Radisson Blu encourages digital conference materials, paperless communication, energy- efficient lighting, responsible waste management and recycling initiatives. The group also supports locally sourced products and suppliers where possible and incorporates community engagement opportunities into group itineraries. Groups can participate in visits to local schools and community centres, tree-planting initiatives, and community clean-up campaigns. They can also support women and youth empowerment projects. “We encourage conference organisers to integrate responsible tourism experiences into their programmes, creating a positive impact beyond the event itself,” says Tichy.