During his tenure as Minister of Foreign Affairs, Harry Kalaba played a facilitative diplomatic role in the government-to-government processes that led to the signing of the contract for the construction of Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport in Livingstone.

The project was undertaken as part of Zambia’s strategic preparations to host the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) General Assembly, co-hosted with Zimbabwe. Through his position, Kalaba helped guide bilateral engagements with cooperating partners, ensuring that the airport development agreement was finalized in support of the international event.

The upgraded airport greatly enhanced aviation capacity in Livingstone—introducing modern passenger facilities, improved runway standards, and better service capability—allowing the city to welcome increased tourist arrivals for the UNWTO. More broadly, the investment helped consolidate Livingstone’s status as Zambia’s tourism capital, strengthening its appeal as a gateway to the Victoria Falls and expanding opportunities for regional tourism growth.

Kalaba’s involvement in advancing the agreement contributed to securing the diplomatic foundation necessary to successfully deliver a project that boosted Zambia’s global image and long-term tourism competitiveness.