Keypoints:
- Livingstone to host Africa-wide bike festival
- Government backs safety and adventure tourism push
- Event aims to boost regional travel links
ZAMBIA is positioning itself as a regional hub for motorcycle tourism with the launch of the Africa Bike Culture Festival, set for Livingstone from May 22 to 29 2026. The announcement was made on December 5 2025 at a launch event attended by Luckie Chiyowele, CEO of Africa Bike Culture, and Tourism Minister Rodney Sikumba. Both told guests the festival shows how motorcycle tourism can support economic growth and broaden Zambia’s tourism appeal.
The event will bring together participants from more than ten African countries, highlighting Zambia’s growing ambition in the adventure travel market. Officials emphasised Zambia’s central location in Southern Africa and its natural attractions as key drivers for new tourism products linked to outdoor travel.
Livingstone at the centre of the festival
Livingstone will host the festival, offering riders access to Victoria Falls and surrounding landscapes. Organisers said the event builds on past successes, including the Mosi-oa-Tunya Rally, which drew regional bikers and showcased Zambia’s scenery and culture.
Minister Sikumba said the festival aims to highlight Zambia’s cultural richness while presenting motorcycling as a new way to experience the country. He noted the event would support local jobs and expand the range of tourism products for visitors.
The festival will feature group rides, races, biking exhibitions and activities designed to appeal to both dedicated riders and general visitors. Chiyowele said the organisers want to raise awareness of the economic value of motorcycle tourism, including opportunities for small businesses, mechanics, guides and hospitality providers.
Safety and sustainable tourism focus
The government will support biker-led safety campaigns ahead of the festival to ensure the event aligns with national road safety objectives. These efforts support the Eighth National Development Plan and the Tourism Master Plan (2022–2038), which promote responsible tourism practices.
Sikumba said road safety is central to the long-term development of motorcycle tourism in Zambia. He added that sustainability guides Zambia’s strategy, working with communities, private partners and international stakeholders to deliver benefits while protecting natural and cultural assets.
Strengthening regional travel links
The Africa Bike Culture Festival is expected to build stronger regional ties by attracting participants from across the continent. Organisers said the event will support new partnerships, strengthen cross-border travel and increase the visibility of adventure tourism in Southern Africa.
Zambia aims to establish itself as a key player in Africa’s growing adventure tourism sector by combining outdoor activities with cultural experiences. The festival represents a long-term push to capture the global shift towards immersive travel, especially among younger visitors.
Looking ahead to May 2026
Anticipation is already building among riders and adventure enthusiasts ahead of the inaugural festival. Visitors will have the chance to explore Livingstone and nearby attractions including Victoria Falls, Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park and local cultural sites.
Organisers said the festival is the first step in a wider plan to develop motorcycle routes, train local guides and create a calendar of riding events. Sikumba said the government sees motorcycle tourism as an opportunity to promote Zambia’s landscapes, support local businesses and strengthen the country’s reputation as a destination for adventure travel.
He added that showcasing Zambia’s biking culture could encourage new private investment and stimulate community-led tourism projects.
The festival marks a shift in Zambia’s tourism strategy, expanding beyond traditional attractions to embrace fast-growing trends in adventure travel. If successful, the event could help put Zambia firmly on the map for motorcyclists across Africa and beyond.
