Celebrating Zambia's Heritage: The Grand Finale of "Visit Zambia 2005" and the Safari Spectacle

Historical Milestones and Celebrations

Livingstone, a city steeped in history, celebrated its centenary in April 2005, alongside several other significant anniversaries:

• The Victoria Falls Bridge, an engineering marvel, reached its 100th anniversary since its completion in April and subsequent commissioning in September 1905.
• The Seventh Day Adventist church marked a century of presence in Zambia since its establishment in April 1905.
• The Jesuit Fathers of the Catholic Church commemorated the founding of two missions: Chikuni in Monze and Kasisi in Lusaka, both established in August 1905.
• The Baptist Church Union celebrated its establishment in Zambia, which also occurred in August 1905.
• The 100th birthday of the late Secretary-General of the United Nations, Dag Hammarskjöld, was remembered. He tragically died in a plane crash at Ndola, Zambia, on September 18, 1961.
• The 150th anniversary of Dr. David Livingstone's discovery of the Victoria Falls was a highlight of the year.

The Livingstone Events Organisation (LEO) orchestrated a series of activities leading up to the "Visit Zambia 2005" campaign's grand finale on November 16, the day Dr. Livingstone first laid eyes on the Victoria Falls 150 years prior. The world was invited to join Zambia in this celebration, with special guests including the descendants of Dr. Livingstone himself.

The Legacy of Dr. David Livingstone

Two of Dr. Livingstone's great-grandchildren, Dr. David Livingstone Wilson and Deirdre Nyasa Rolf Livingstone, confirmed their attendance in Zambia to partake in the festivities. According to the Livingstone Centenary Celebrations 2005, the 150th-anniversary events of Dr. Livingstone’s sighting of the Victoria Falls were scheduled for November 15th and 16th in Livingstone, the town closest to the iconic waterfall.

The Safari Carnival in Africa

The safari carnival in Zambia was not just a celebration of historical centenaries but also a testament to the country's commitment to wildlife conservation and tourism. Zambia's safari industry has seen significant growth, with the country being home to a plethora of wildlife reserves and national parks. According to the World Bank, tourism contributes significantly to Zambia's economy, with the sector experiencing a growth rate of 6.5% from 2007 to 2016.

The "Visit Zambia 2005" campaign and the safari carnival were instrumental in showcasing Zambia's potential as a premier safari destination. The country offers a diverse range of safari experiences, from walking safaris in South Luangwa National Park to river safaris on the Zambezi River. The Kafue National Park, one of the largest in the world, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting a rich biodiversity that includes lions, leopards, and the elusive cheetah.

In conclusion, the "Visit Zambia 2005" campaign and the subsequent safari carnival were not only a celebration of Zambia's historical milestones but also a launchpad for the country's burgeoning safari industry. These events highlighted Zambia's commitment to preserving its heritage and promoting sustainable tourism, ensuring that the country's natural and cultural treasures will be enjoyed by generations to come.