President Hakainde Hichilema has called on young people to embrace hard work, ambition, respect for elders and spiritual grounding as key pillars for success in life. In a message shared on his Facebook page, the President urged youths across Zambia to dream big while remaining disciplined and loyal to their families and their country. He stressed that success is built through consistent effort and a strong moral foundation. His message also highlighted the importance of seeking God’s guidance in all personal and professional pursuits. The statement has since drawn wide attention from different stakeholders who view it as timely and relevant.
In his message, President Hichilema encouraged young people to avoid shortcuts and instead commit to hard work as a pathway to meaningful achievement. He emphasized that ambition should be matched with responsibility and respect for elders, who play a vital role in guiding society. The President also reminded youths that loyalty to the nation is essential in building unity and progress. He further pointed out that faith in God provides strength and wisdom when facing life’s challenges. His message reflects a broader call for character development among young citizens in a rapidly changing social environment.
Community leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the President’s counsel, noting that it speaks directly to the challenges facing young people today. Many have raised concerns about the influence of digital platforms, which often expose youths to negative behaviors and distractions. According to these stakeholders, guidance that promotes discipline, respect and spiritual values is necessary to balance the pressures of modern life. They argue that strong moral direction can help young people make better decisions in education, work and relationships. The President’s message is therefore seen as reinforcing positive values that support national development goals.
Among those who responded positively is Seventh-day Adventist Church Lusaka Conference youth director Davis Kayaya, who said the President’s remarks align closely with the church’s teachings. He noted that principles such as hard work, respect for elders and reliance on God are central to youth development within the church. He further stated that such messages from national leaders help strengthen moral instruction already being given in faith-based institutions. Kayaya also emphasized that young people benefit greatly when leadership and religious guidance reinforce similar values. This alignment is seen as important in shaping responsible and productive citizens.
The President’s message continues to resonate across different sectors, especially among youth-focused organizations and faith communities. It highlights the need for collective responsibility in guiding the younger generation toward positive life choices. By promoting hard work, respect and spiritual awareness, the message encourages a balanced approach to personal growth. It also reinforces the idea that national development depends heavily on the values and discipline of its youth. The call serves as a reminder that strong leadership and moral guidance remain essential in shaping Zambia’s future.