In a significant move to advance Zambia’s development agenda, President Hakainde Hichilema engaged with Their Royal Highnesses from Luapula Province on the sidelines of the Labour Day celebrations. The meeting, which took place during the national holiday, focused on addressing the province’s key developmental priorities and the well-being of its people.
The President reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to driving progress across all ten provinces of Zambia. “We remain fully dedicated to advancing development in every region of the country,” President Hichilema stated. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between the government and traditional leaders to achieve these goals, underscoring the pivotal role that responsible resource management and utilization play in fostering national growth.
Uniting for Progress: A Call for Collaborative Efforts
During the engagement, the President called on traditional leaders to work alongside the government in driving sustainable development initiatives. He recognized the significant influence of traditional authorities in their communities and called for their active participation in shaping the province’s future. The President stressed that working together with traditional leaders is essential for ensuring the well-being of citizens and creating a prosperous Zambia.
Traditional leaders were also urged to continue supporting the government’s efforts in promoting unity across the country. The “One Zambia, One Nation” vision remains central to the government’s national agenda, and President Hichilema reiterated that fostering unity is critical for long-term peace and stability.
Concerns Over Misuse of Constituency Development Fund (CDF)
While the meeting focused on collaboration and unity, the President also expressed concern over the misuse of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) by some Members of Parliament. “We are particularly concerned about certain MPs who are undermining the effective implementation of the CDF,” Hichilema remarked, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in the use of public funds.
The CDF, a vital resource intended for local development projects, has been a cornerstone of the government’s efforts to improve infrastructure and services at the grassroots level. The President emphasized that the fund should be utilized efficiently and responsibly to benefit all citizens, particularly those in rural areas like Luapula Province.
Commitment to National Unity and Accelerated Development
In closing, President Hichilema reaffirmed his commitment to working with traditional authorities to accelerate development and promote national unity. He acknowledged the critical role of traditional leadership in Zambia’s political and social fabric and expressed his gratitude for their continued support.
The President’s engagement with Luapula’s traditional leaders serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, collaboration, and responsible governance in the pursuit of sustainable development. Through collective efforts, Zambia is poised to overcome challenges and build a prosperous future for all its citizens.
As Zambia continues to prioritize development across all provinces, the government’s ongoing partnerships with traditional leaders will be key to unlocking the potential of every region, ensuring that the benefits of progress are felt by all Zambians.