On Saturday, the Minister of Information and Media and Chief Government Spokesperson, Hon. Cornelius Mweetwa, MP, represented President Hakainde Hichilema at the Kapondela Traditional Ceremony of His Royal Highness Chief Shezongo of the Lumba Ila at Luchena Palace in Itezhi Tezhi District.
In his address, the President highlighted the significance of traditional ceremonies as platforms for unity, cultural preservation, and citizen engagement. He stated that such gatherings allow people from diverse backgrounds to share Zambia’s rich cultural heritage.
President Hichilema emphasized that traditional ceremonies also provide a critical channel for the Government to communicate national development programmes and receive feedback from citizens through traditional leaders. He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to collaborating with traditional leaders to provide effective leadership and drive development across the country.
In line with supporting traditional leadership, the President assured that the Government will continue its project to construct palaces for all traditional leaders. He directed the local authority in Itezhi Tezhi District to ensure that all six chiefs in the district have their palaces constructed.
The President underscored the Government’s focus on education and healthcare, highlighting ongoing efforts to construct and rehabilitate health and education infrastructure nationwide. He also reiterated the Government’s commitment to social security programmes, including Cash for Work, social cash transfers, and food security packs, aimed at supporting vulnerable citizens.
President Hichilema encouraged all eligible citizens to obtain their national registration cards and voter cards to exercise their right to participate in next year’s elections. He concluded by calling for peace, unity, and coexistence under the banner of One Zambia, One Nation, stressing that differences in opinion, tribe, or political affiliation should not divide the country.
This ceremony reinforced the Government’s pledge to strengthen ties with traditional leaders, enhance social welfare, and advance national development while promoting cultural unity.