President Hakainde Hichilema yesterday engaged residents of Mandevu Township, where he listened to their concerns and discussed key challenges affecting their daily lives. The community engagement provided an opportunity for residents to raise issues requiring Government attention and for the President to reaffirm his administration’s commitment to addressing the needs of ordinary citizens. Among the major concerns highlighted during the interaction were poor sanitation, inadequate road infrastructure, security challenges and the growing problem of drug and substance abuse among young people. President Hichilema emphasised the importance of listening to communities and ensuring that their concerns receive the attention they deserve. He also stressed that national development must involve meaningful cooperation between Government and the people.
One of the key issues raised during the engagement was the sanitation challenge facing Mandevu Constituency. In response, President Hichilema directed the Member of Parliament for Mandevu, Mr Adrian Banda, to ensure that the sanitation problem is addressed. The President emphasised that the directive requires the constituency representative to follow up on the matter and work closely with all relevant stakeholders to identify and implement sustainable solutions. This places responsibility on local leadership to ensure that concerns raised by residents translate into practical action. The President’s directive also highlights the importance of accountability and effective representation in addressing challenges affecting communities.
Sanitation remains an important development concern, particularly in growing urban communities such as Mandevu Township. Poor waste management can create unhealthy living conditions, affect the appearance of neighbourhoods and increase environmental and public health risks. Addressing these challenges requires more than occasional cleaning exercises or temporary interventions. It calls for effective waste collection, proper disposal facilities, improved drainage where necessary and consistent maintenance of public spaces. President Hichilema highlighted the need for collective responsibility, encouraging cooperation between residents, community leaders, local authorities and other relevant stakeholders. Sustainable sanitation improvements will depend on coordinated efforts and long-term planning that responds to the needs of the growing constituency.
The President also underscored the importance of constituency-level coordination in responding to community concerns. He noted that elected representatives and local leadership structures have an important role in ensuring that problems affecting residents receive the necessary attention. The Member of Parliament must therefore work with local authorities and other stakeholders to develop practical responses to the sanitation challenges identified in Mandevu. Residents also have a responsibility to support these efforts by practising proper waste disposal and helping maintain clean public spaces. Such cooperation can strengthen community ownership and improve the effectiveness of development programmes. As Mandevu continues to expand, improved sanitation must remain a key priority for protecting public health and improving the overall wellbeing of its residents.
Another important issue addressed by President Hichilema was drug and substance abuse among young people. The President urged law enforcement officers to adopt a supportive approach towards young people affected by substance abuse and help them become responsible and productive members of society. He emphasised that officers should play a constructive role in guiding affected individuals towards positive change rather than treating every situation solely as a law enforcement matter. This approach recognises the importance of helping young people rebuild their lives and make better decisions about their future. Drug and substance abuse can affect education, employment opportunities, family relationships and community safety. Supporting affected individuals through appropriate guidance and rehabilitation efforts can help create opportunities for recovery and reintegration into society.
The President’s message also highlights the importance of addressing the factors that contribute to drug and substance abuse among young people. Families, schools, community organisations, traditional and community leaders and law enforcement agencies all have a role to play in promoting responsible behaviour. Young people need access to positive opportunities, guidance and support systems that encourage them to participate meaningfully in society. Law enforcement officers can contribute by identifying vulnerable individuals and supporting appropriate interventions while continuing to uphold the law. A balanced approach that combines community support, prevention, rehabilitation and accountability can help reduce the negative effects of substance abuse. President Hichilema’s remarks placed renewed attention on the need to protect young people and give them opportunities to build productive futures.
Road infrastructure was another major development priority discussed during the engagement. President Hichilema stated that Government would work towards improving the road network in Mandevu Constituency to enhance access and movement for residents. Good roads are essential for connecting communities, supporting businesses and making it easier for people to access schools, health facilities, markets and other important services. Poor road conditions can create difficulties for motorists, pedestrians, public transport operators and small businesses. Improving the road network can therefore contribute to better mobility and stronger economic activity within the constituency. The President’s commitment reflects the importance of infrastructure development in improving living conditions and supporting the growth of urban communities.
Security also featured prominently in the President’s engagement with Mandevu residents. He indicated that Government would work towards strengthening the security system in the constituency to improve safety for the local population. A safe community provides residents with greater confidence to conduct their daily activities, operate businesses and participate in social and economic life. Strengthening security requires cooperation between law enforcement agencies, community leaders and residents. Community participation can help authorities understand local security concerns and identify areas requiring attention. Improved security measures, combined with responsible community involvement, can contribute to a safer environment for families, businesses and other members of the public.
The engagement in Mandevu demonstrates the importance of direct interaction between national leadership and local communities. By listening to residents, President Hichilema provided an opportunity for people to communicate the challenges they experience in their neighbourhoods. The issues discussed covered several aspects of everyday life, including sanitation, infrastructure, youth welfare and public safety. His directives and stated Government commitments placed emphasis on the responsibility of local representatives and relevant institutions to work towards addressing these concerns. However, the success of such engagements ultimately depends on consistent follow-up, effective coordination and the implementation of practical solutions. Residents will look to their elected leaders and responsible authorities to ensure that the concerns raised receive sustained attention.
For Mandevu residents, improved sanitation, better roads and stronger security are important priorities that directly affect their quality of life. Addressing drug and substance abuse among young people is equally important for building a healthier and more productive community. These challenges require cooperation between Government institutions, constituency leadership, local authorities and the people themselves. President Hichilema’s engagement reaffirmed the Government’s stated commitment to working with communities to identify problems and pursue solutions. The next important step will be ensuring that the issues raised translate into visible progress on the ground. As Mandevu continues to grow, sustained attention to these priorities will be essential in creating a cleaner, safer and better-connected township for current and future generations.