The Ministry of Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources (MTENR) was created in January 2002 by merging the two former Ministries of Tourism (MOT) and that of Environment and Natural Resources (ENR) arising from the need to integrate tourism, environment and natural resources considerations in Zambia’s sectoral and socio-economic planning processes. The MTENR is charged with the responsibility of providing guidance in tourism, environment and natural resources sectors of the economy of Zambia. The Ministry has three (3) core functions i.e. Tourism, Environment and Natural Resources Management and Development where the main focus is to ensure the provision of an appropriate legislative and policy framework that guides the management and development of the three sectors by the Ministry and other partners.

Mission Statement
"To provide a policy framework for the management and development of tourism, heritage and natural resources and the environment in order to contribute to sustainable socio-economic development for the benefit of present and future generations."

Goal Statement
"To facilitate the development of a diversified, sustainable and regionally competitive tourism industry and ensure a quality environment and sustainable utilization of heritage and natural resources."