The number of foreign tourists visiting Zambia in 2005 increased to about 669,000 compared to 515, 000 in 2004, the Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources said here Wednesday.

Marking the world tourism day, which falls on September 27, permanent secretary of the ministry Russell Mulele said that in the southern African country tourism contributes about 2.5 percent to its gross domestic product in 2005 and earned it about US$164.8 million.

He said this year's theme, "tourism enriches individuals, families and entire communities," is of special significance to the tourism industry in his country as it emphasizes the role that tourism plays in contributing to sustainable economic development and highlights the many benefits derived from it.

"The Zambian government fully recognizes the potential of tourism in contributing to national wealth, employment creation and poverty reduction. As such, the government has, over the years, facilitated the development of tourism products which are private sector driven," he said.

The tourism development credit facility (TDCF) is one major program initiated by the government in the tourism industry which has been implemented since 2003, he said.

Since the inception of the program 20 billion kwacha (US$5 million) has been allocated to it by the government and about 15 billion kwacha (US$3.75 million) has already been disbursed to 105 applicants. Another 3 billion kwacha (US$750,000) is currently in the process of being disbursed, the permanent secretary said.

(Xinhua News Agency September 28, 2006)