Zambia Leads Inclusive Halal Tourism Future Travel Initiatives

There is something quite exceptional when you get a room full of people who are pioneers within the sector and passionate and genuinely care about shaping the future of travel. That’s what took place at the Halal Travel Network (HTN) Mixer featuring IWTTF, hosted by the Zambia High Commission in London on the 3rd April, where we gathered for an inclusive travel networking event that was equal parts inspiring and energising. There was a sense of joy, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation, with professionals from across the travel and tourism landscape coming together to discuss what is relevant, what needs improving, and the importance of inclusivity, representation and innovation within travel. 

A warm welcome and a vision for change

The Afghan Tea Co provided refreshments for all the guests (photo: Shebs Alom)

Before the event started, you could feel the buzz and excitement in the room as the conversations flowed and ideas sparked. Guests were welcomed with delicious traditional Afghan cakes alongside tea and coffee. With a finite number of people, there was enough time to catch everyone in the room and discuss industry trends. But there was no doubt that inclusive and culturally respectful travel isn’t just a trend–it’s the present and future. It’s up to us to mould the narrative. 

What steps are being taken to make halal tourism better

Magnificent speech from Her Excellency Ms. Macenje Mazoka (photo: Shebs Alom)

Her Excellency Ms. Macenje Mazoka, High Commissioner of the Republic of Zambia to the UK, then opened proceedings. Not only was she and her team a fantastic host, but her speech set the tone for the panel. She mentioned Zambia isn’t just talking about inclusive tourism––it’s taking action. The key point she addressed was how Zambia is making strides to welcome halal-conscious travellers, from halal-friendly initiatives to community-led tourism. Her Excellency also discussed how they encourage women in leadership roles that will boost an inclusive voice within the community and industry, thus positioning the country as a destination that truly welcomes everyone. 

Now, let’s be genuine––there is a lot of work to be done for halal-conscious travellers to seamlessly book a trip to Zambia, safe in the knowledge that all aspects of their experience will be in hand. When analysing the discussion points between HTN’s CEO Hafsa Gaher, CEO of Women in Travel CIC Alessandra Alonso, and Her Excellency Macenje Mazoka, there is a lot more that established businesses need to do to help propel the market. Gaher mentioned that “Representation matters, and a halal-conscious traveller when it comes to booking a holiday to Zambia, would love to see someone that they can relate to and understand. And it’s not just Muslims booking a halal-orientated holiday; non-muslims are.”  

Zambia strives to be ahead of the game, recognising its potential and ensuring everything is done for a comfortable stay. The discussion emphasised that halal tourism isn’t just about the food, with Gaher stating, “It’s about creating a travel environment that respects religious and cultural needs. By being here and discussing Zambia’s proactive stance, we show that it is ready to be a leader in this space.” 

The rest of the industry’s ability to meet these needs will define which destination thrives alongside Zambia in the coming years. 

Women’s leadership, mentorship & allyship

HTN’s CEO Hafsa Gaher, Her Excellency Macenje Mazoka, & CEO of Women in Travel CIC Alessandra Alonso

(Photo: Shebs Alom)

Another key discussion was the role of women in shaping the future of travel. Her Excellency spoke about Zambia’s commitment to female leadership in tourism, and alongside the panel, they reinforced something we all know deep down––mentorship is an essential aspect in building careers and promoting change within the industry. Alonso explained, “When experienced professionals take the time to lift others up, particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds, it creates a ripple effect that benefits everyone. We have our allyship––something that’s more than just a buzzword. True allyship means showing up, advocating for others, and ensuring diverse voices are heard. That’s what we at Women in Travel have created.”

The panel clarified that this isn’t optional; it’s a responsibility, whether it’s opening doors, challenging bias, or simply creating space for different perspectives. We all have a role to play. 

Looking ahead

Highly engaged crowd for a roaring successful event (photo: Shebs Alom)

For businesses, this networking event was invaluable. I have always found that one sign of a good event (apart from the refreshments of course) is when it overruns, with organisers having to usher enraptured attendants out of the door with a promise of further events to come. Indeed, as the doors were closed for the evening at the Zambian High Commission, attendees could still be seen lining the streets en route to the tube stations, enriching the London air with talk of plans and “what’s next…” The conversations didn’t just stop at ideas—they turned into potential collaborations, with attendees brainstorming ways to bring more inclusivity into their own areas of work. It will be fascinating to see what steps are taken. Mainstream media needs to do more to get the positive words out into the public domain. Events like these remind us of the power of collective action and the impact of shared knowledge.

Zambia is stepping up as a leader in inclusive travel, taking a stance for halal tourism to be a force for good. The conversations, connections, and collaborations from this gathering will undoubtedly spark real change. The future of travel is diverse, and Zambia? It’s right at the forefront. Exciting times ahead!

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