President Hichilema Reflects on Zambia's Resilience and Progress in State of the Nation Address

In a powerful address at the Fourth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly, President Hakainde Hichilema reflected on Zambia's progress in upholding its National Values and Principles, which form the foundation of the nation’s identity. Central to the speech were the values of unity, peace, and stability, which Hichilema emphasised as essential for Zambia’s continued strength and prosperity.

The President expressed deep gratitude to the Zambian people for their resilience in 2024, a year that tested these values amid the worst drought in living memory. Despite these challenges, Hichilema highlighted the government’s unwavering commitment to economic transformation, ensuring that all citizens have the opportunity to prosper. He reiterated that this transformation is a long-term journey that requires the active participation of every Zambian, with the government providing an enabling environment for growth.

For example, Hichilema outlined the positive impact of the government’s flagship programme, the Enhanced Constituency Development Fund (CDF), now standing at K36.1 million per constituency per year. This initiative has breathed new life into local communities, improving livelihoods and fostering a clear transformation at the grassroots level.

Addressing the pressing issue of climate change, Hichilema acknowledged its devastating impact on Zambia’s food, energy, and water security, as well as the increased cost of living. However, he also noted the opportunity to adopt alternative solutions, such as the construction and rehabilitation of dams to support year-round agricultural production through irrigation. This initiative, aligned with the Rainwater Harvesting Strategy, aims to improve resilience in the face of climate challenges.

Hichilema closed his speech with a call to action: “We must all become patriotic citizens of high values and principles. Let our national values and principles inspire us to build a future worthy of generations to come. Let us all commit to accomplish more and better.” He urged the Zambian people to remain united as they continue to work towards a prosperous and inclusive nation. "One Zambia, One Nation," he declared, reinforcing the importance of unity in achieving the country's collective goals.