Countrymen and Women,
Good Evening.
Today marks the end of the year 2019. As the clock strikes 24 hours, we will be entering a brand-new year. As we bid farewell to 2019 and eagerly await the dawn of 2020, let us thank the almighty God for his abundant grace which has brought us this far in peace and stability.
The end of year is an opportunity to look back at what we achieved or did not achieve, as individuals, as families and as a nation. It is also a time to reflect and make resolutions about what we desire to achieve in the new year.
Let us, therefore, take a moment to reflect on what we have done to make our country a better place for all. By taking stock of our past, we are better able to plan and face our future. More importantly, we must resolve to overcome whatever hurdles that come our way and not give in to despair and self-pity.
Countrymen and Women,
Admittedly, the year 2019 has been a challenging year. Difficult for the country. Difficult for our families. Difficult for business. Difficult for social services.
To begin with, the extreme weather conditions which affected the sub-region did not spare our country. Agricultural production suffered, resulting in food deficit in most parts of our country, particularly at household level. Even the Victoria falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, which usually has abundant water, virtually dried up, thereby diminishing the unique attractiveness of our flagship tourism product.
Also adversely affected was our hydro-power generation. The low water levels in our reservoirs at lake Kariba and Itezhi Tezhi Dam triggered the most severe load shedding ever experienced in the history of our country. The effect of the power deficit was low production in most sectors of our economy such as mining and manufacturing. Even for our small-scale entrepreneurs.
Further, global events such as trade restrictions between major economies of the world, also affected our economy. The demand for our major export commodities was dampened. Despite all this, we never gave up. We resolved to overcome and we kept the economy afloat.
Countrymen and Women,
Government fully understands the difficulties our people are experiencing. It is for this reason that we have been distributing relief food to hard hit areas across the country. In the last quarter of 2019 alone, 29,000 tonnes of mealie meal were distributed to affected areas, which constitutes about 50 percent of the total amount of mealie meal required in the needy areas.
The distribution of relief food will continue until the hunger situation improves and our people are able to fend for themselves. Government is, however, not alone in providing relief to our people. My gratitude, therefore, goes to all our cooperating partners, various organisations as well as individuals of goodwill who have, and continue to contribute generously to these humanitarian efforts.
Every Zambian has a responsibility to bring hope and comfort to those in need. Those involved in the distribution of relief food have a responsibility to make sure that the food reaches the intended communities and households. We must, at all cost, avoid worsening the situation by engaging in illegal activities such as corruption, smuggling and extortion. Let us be vigilant and report such misconduct. We want to see this food reach our people in need and make a difference in their lives.
Government is also concerned about the high price of mealie meal in the country, a situation negatively affecting our people. To address this problem, we are working with millers to progressively reduce the price of mealie meal. This intervention is beginning to yield positive results. It is our desire to see that every household is able to afford at least a bag of mealie meal.
Countrymen and Women,
With regard to the power deficit, government is importing electricity in a bid to reduce hours of load shedding which has not only affected businesses but also households. This intervention has brought some relief to businesses and our families.
Further, the waiver on duty on the importation of power generators and solar equipment is still in effect to enable our people have access to alternative sources of power. Furthermore, government is removing duty on the importation of gas stoves, other gas cookers and gas boilers with effect from tomorrow, the first of January, 2020.
Most importantly, efforts to ensure a steady supply of electricity are ongoing. The new 750 megawatts Kafue Gorge Lower Hydro Power Station will come on board in the coming year. This will in no doubt significantly ease the power deficit in the country.
Let me take this opportunity to thank you, the people of Zambia, for your patience and understanding as we go through this challenging period. We are a resilient people and we shall overcome. As the bible says in 2 Corinthians Chapter 4 verse 9, we may feel cast down but we are not destroyed because our lord is in control of the situation.
Countrymen and Women,
We continue to enjoy peace and stability as a country. In as much as we have differences among ourselves, we remain a beacon of peace. We must, therefore, strive to remain peaceful and make it our duty to maintain this peace and stability. Let us be together as we strive to conquer, because together we will win. Let us not pull in different directions, because together we will win. Let no political belonging divide us, because together we will win. Let no tribe divide us, because together we will win.
Thanks to this peace and stability, we were able to pursue a sustainable development agenda. Let us not take this peace for granted, it is through peace and development that we continued to enhance the welfare of our people. More of our citizens are now able to access health, education as well as water and sanitation services. This is a clear testimony that our robust infrastructure development programme is, indeed, bearing fruit and being appreciated by our people.
We have connected the country through an improved road network, telecommunication, and digital television services.
More of our people in rural areas now have access to electricity through the rural electrification programme.
It is the duty of each and every Zambian to take good care of all the public infrastructure in order to derive maximum benefit from our investment.
Countrymen and Women,
Government continues to hold provincial investment expositions especially in rural areas. This year, expositions were successfully held in the Copperbelt, North-Western and Southern Provinces, bringing the number of provinces that have held expositions to six since 2017.
As a result of these expositions, we have seen an increase in the number of tourism activities in Samfya; the development of the Kalungwishi farm block in Lunte, and the construction of the industrial economic zone in Chibombo. It is our expectation that more investments will come from these efforts.
This will enhance incomes for our people through increased job opportunities, ready markets for their produce, as well as, opportunities to engage in business partnerships with prospective investors.
Countrymen and Women,
Government reaffirms its commitment to make this country better. This is what we promised our people. A better life and a better country for everyone. Let us be innovative and adapt to climate change. I encourage every Zambian to plant a tree during this rainy season and make it a habit to dispose solid waste responsibly. By so doing, we will contribute to creating a clean and healthier environment.
Countrymen and Women,
Even amid setbacks, we must succeed, we will succeed and we shall succeed. As government, we will not shy away from our responsibility to provide leadership. Leadership to take the country to greater heights while maintaining and championing peace and stability. Leadership in uplifting the lives of our people, without leaving anyone behind. Leadership in transforming our country for the better.
I, therefore, urge all public officers to rise above board and remain patriotic. Let us always do what is right and good for the nation. This way, government will be able to perform its role to the expectation of our people. I further urge every Zambian to play their role in developing this country at individual and community level. By working together, we shall make Zambia a better place.
Countrymen and Women,
The youth and women are a vital resource that play a critical role in our transformation agenda. Government is determined to provide our youth and women with opportunities to enable them contribute more to national development. Government is determined to facilitate for the physically challenged persons so that they equally contribute to national development. We will continue to empower them to engage in meaningful economic activities of their choice.
To you our youth and women, I urge you to use these empowerment opportunities effectively to uplift your lives and transform your communities. I know that you are able and capable. When you actively participate in our economy, your families benefit, your community benefits, your country benefits, we all benefit
Countrymen and Women,
As we welcome 2020, let us remember that the task of building this nation is the responsibility of each and every Zambian across the political divide. Therefore, commit to work harder and advance our unity of purpose. We should be resilient and innovative. We should embrace new ideas and have a positive attitude towards life.
Let us renew our commitment to do and stand for what is right and good for our nation. Let us uphold the values and principles that hold us together as a nation. Let us be a caring nation. Zambia needs the contribution of all of us. Let us also remain patriotic and united in line with our motto of “One Zambia One Nation”.
Countrymen and Women,
The festive season is a time for sharing and giving. Let us share with those who do not have and lend a hand to those in need. Let us also include those who are lonely in our celebrations. Let us continue to live in harmony with one another and the environment.
Let us have clarity and sharpness of thought, like a 2020 vision. May God bless us all with happiness, good health, peace and prosperity in 2020.
Good Night.
Very well articulated speech. Good to see Zumani’s first piece of advisory work in the flesh. I like it when young people heed the advice of those more experienced but also stand their ground on aspects that they believe are right. As we close yet another annual chapter, it is vital for us to reflect on the challenges and the very many successes of the PF government. Even with the many uncontrollable challenges, we still have managed to ensure one of the biggest infrastructure developments in history while still maintaining our record as a beacon of peace in the region. we will endeavour to continue working towards our goals to ensure development in all corners of the country in 2020 and come 2021 we shall again lead our people. Happy new year and drink responsibly. KZ
Yes your Excellency admittedly, the year 2019 has been a challenging year. Perhaps, the worst year closing with a double tariff blow to your people.
I am just wondering how mealie meal prices would be reduced farther for the people with this devastating tariff hit.
2020 your Government gotta up the game, be resolute, focused, steady.
You’re spared because the people of Zambia are very understanding. They know whats up.
They are praying forbyou too.
My gals and I have your votes secured.
May the good lord bless you for strongly objecting to gay issues in our land.
Your message is well received.
That said, we Zambians pledge to work even harder in 2020.
It is well with us except for a few disgruntled half citizens.
Countrymen and Women,
With regard to the power deficit, government is importing electricity in a bid to reduce hours of load shedding which has not only affected businesses but also households. This intervention has brought some relief to businesses and our families.
True or False.
A rather shallow account of the true state of affairs our finds itself in. Very skechy on details.
It appears Lungu has a sugarcoat for every bitter pill out there. The problem is that people are starting to taste through this thin sugarcoat.
“We are a resilient people”, Lungu writes as he opens up his third bottle of Jameson to wash down the caviar.
There is one positive thing on this statement. The wavering of duty on alternative energy generators. This is one positive step, but with this PF, the devil is always in the details.
Bakateka, kalebalika. Received with thanks. It is a new year of triumph. Together we should lock the economy on a growth trajectory fueling opportunities for all.
Who was he addressing?? Those who used to listen and read from Ba Edgar stopped in protest of the 20% forced donations from salary to build his Church called National House of prayers, for campaign.
Ba pf cadre umungulu usale mu 2019, twapapata. Kale kale bane ka voters card pafupifupi, we can’t be celebrating this festival period in darkness, and come back to make the same mistake when voting.
Useless ka worst president on earth, I hope you have left your thieving manners in 2019, kawalala scatter teeth
Mr kaiser Zulu you must be ashamed of your self, I know you did allude to the fact that you are not as educated but your reasoning leaves much to be desired. Today you mighty be enjoying what is happening in our country because obviously you are in the driving force. Bur remember nothing stays the same forever, you have had your chance at leadership what can you point at or in the next 5 to 10 years how would people remember you?
Couldn’t read it, but only scanned through. One thing is missing, he did not elaborate further on his 20% salary cut. According to Chanda Kasolo, it is compulsory for the President, but voluntary for others….I fire myself
He has already forgotten about that salary cut.
Just like he has forgotten about the 20% contracts going to Zambians.
This is what happens when statements are made whilex one is under the influence.
Lungu is being disingenuous and lying.Lungu’s whole presidential term has been difficult with slow endless decline so in 2019 those issues just compounded.
Happy new year Zambia!!! 2021 here we come. Sontapo!!! We thank God and his excellency ECL for his able leadership. Better things to come in 2020
Violence, Corruption & Mukula!!
Sleep on that Mr State House Boxer.
Jealousy will kill you. Some say I own 100 guns others even said I have an east European girlfriend. No proof just hogwash
If it is true this is the Kaiser we know,he should have a very low voice.This is 2020 and counting, you must be very careless to be so busy on social media, you are only reminding the citizens of your sins.Get scarce sir,time is soon coming when you will think Zambia is your hell…
Who did the powdering today?
“Most importantly, efforts to ensure a steady supply of electricity are ongoing. The new 750 megawatts Kafue Gorge Lower Hydro Power Station will come on board in the coming year.”
Is Kafue Gorge Lower exempt from climate change? If so, then this talk of climate change is just a political myth to mask failure.
Not exempt but try to understand things before commenting. Kafue Gorge Lower is an addition. Besides, because the Lord blessed our country so much, it will be using the same water that Kafue Gorge Upper will have used. In addition, the Kafue Gorge Plants have a reservoir upstream (Itezhi-Tezhi) and the Kafue river also get charged by groundwater from the mines. So, yest it will be impacted by climate change but the dynamics are different.
Is it resilience or hopelessness and despair that better to forage and live by the day. Words mean nothing to the hungry or dying.
Kaizer, well-articulated doesn’t mean anything when Lungu does nothing to fix the issues except state temporary solutions. You have no policies about anything except stealing (mwebala). You barely work and it is showing, at first it was retirees, workers not getting paid on time, now you even defaulting on loans. Sampa listed no cholera as an achievement on his part forgetting that it hasn’t rained much.
Name one solution? If you feel pf has no solutions why don’t you help your country by engaging us and providing us with solutions you feel will make your life better? You would rather spend time complaining because it’s an easier option. The thing is, development to you does not have the same meaning as development to majority of zambian. Not everyone can expect to gain or be better off. There is no policy in this world that can make all citizens better off. So 200 kwahxha profit to a middle class man will not have the same effect as 200 kwacha to a lower income man. Happy new year. My doors are open for discussion
My KZ ,
We would expect a grz uptodate with global affairs to know know that a demestic solar manufacturing industry would Benefit the country. ????
We have been crying for that , but PF seem to have technocrats and advisors from chawama tarvens ????
kaiser you asking us to name solutions for you? what do we pay you for in government huh? just to steal and fatten yourselves? i truly see the real manifestation of what edgar said that he had no vision.
“Let me take this opportunity to thank you, the people of Zambia, for your patience and understanding as we go through this challenging period“-LT
No more five years, with these kind of messages.
The only significant thing about Edgar’s address to the nation is that he looked certain that he’s now fully aware that we don’t want him and that he can’t win the 2021 elections. I’ve already begun to feel sorry for him, he lost an opportunity to serve the nation honestly
2019 was a difficult year for all across the global market regions Most importantly also is that the leadership never chickened out amidst those headwinds .They kept intact amidst those challenges and at-least have steered the Zambian economy away from the malaise that has been affecting global economies and growth
2020 is a different outlook and like in the address lessons have been learnt and people expect some improvement and change in economics
True leadership remains in focus and address those headwinds to emerge victorious separate from usual politicking
Wow , this Kaizar Zulu guy is also a liar ,a fraud and blind like Edgar Lungu.Zambia has lots of grim prospects not the rosy picture being sold to us.
His government retired so many civil servants in national/public interest.Yes,he didn’t mention that it’s his party’s tribalism.Those actions will haunt him.Retirees are at justice ministry camped screaming and cursing for their packages! Yes he didn’t say anything about that becoz it’s not important
KZ, spend the money you have mwibala’d with the rest of your pilfers and stfu! Your being very active on this forum is making more PF members lose their faith in the party and making the opposition very attractive. In fact, you are giving Zambians the motivation to never let mwibalas run this country again.
Yes exactly ,well said.
I personally dont think this is Kaiser.I watched him on that interview with Costa using slay queens language from Chicagos ati “who does that”.
@ Kaizar Zulu: “NO PROOF” IS NOT NECESSARILY THE SAME AS “NOT TRUE”
I listened to the address on deadnbecee and the man did not look sober!! He couldn’t have been alert to all the things he said. I also saw the face of a man on his way out! And the sooner left the better for this country.
KZ’s running commentary (in his new role) as propaganda operative once again exposes the mediocrity of the ecl administration. The thug doesn’t make it better, but confirms the emptiness of those in leadership to think this guy can make it better for through commentary that is stupid at best. They must think Zambians are fools. Not even a four old in a kindergarten would waste time to listen to the baloney the chap continues to spew. He continues to make a clown of himself. We cant expect better from a party whose major pre – occupation has been plunder of our resources.
Talk is cheap! It was another talk show! What is missing is DIRECTION! In his many speeches, our PF president has never articulated numbers! Numbers don’t lie! Is he aware Fuel in Namibia costs K3? There is too much uncertainty in our economy! BOZ updated us in 2019 on the more than 50% reduction in Foreign Direct investment (FDI). Why? What kind of investors does a country attract when fundamentals are not in place? Cr00cked chaps are the ones coming to do hit and run kind of investments! In one breath you talk about climate change and Kafue Gorge Hydro power? We keep getting updates on how Kariba water is still going down and not sure if the PF president is aware of prevailing drought conditions. No mention of robust debt restructuring strategies, fusing of Ministries like Agriculture,…
“Even the Victoria falls, one of the natural wonders of the world, which usually has abundant water, virtually dried up, thereby diminishing the unique attractiveness of our flagship tourism product”. I don’t agree with this comment your excellency, year 1996 was more drier than this last summer, the dry part of the year gives us a good perspective view and geological aspect of the Victoria falls, but anyway well done for this reflection. God bless you and your first family.
Happy Newyear
All the best
‘Governmenet is also concerned about the high price of mealie meal in the country, a situation negatively affecting our people. To address this problem, we are working with millers to progressively reduce the price of mealie meal. This intervention is beginning to yield positive results. It is our desire to see that every household is able to afford at least a bag of mealie meal.’
This paragraph summarises the speech as well as the ECL presidency.
At least we are getting closer to 2021, when we the people give PF a return on all the nonsense they have served Zambians.
lies as usual. how will he ensure mealie meal prices will be reduced by millers when on the other hand costs have gone up due to increments in fuel and electricity? which electricity is being imported when we have not seen any change in load shedding hours?. boss you have failed, and as a servant (ka kaboyi) we your bosses will show you the door out next year.
IN THOSE YEARS WHEN THERE WAS AN ANNOUNCEMENT THAT THE PRESIDENT WILL BE ADDRESSING THE NATION, EVERYONE WOULD BE TUNED TO RADIO AND TV, BUT WITH THE ADVENT OF ONE WHO SAYS ONE THING AND DOES THE OTHER, JUST THAT ANNOUNCEMENT THAT HE WILL BE ADDRESSING THE NATION MAKES YOU SWITCH CHANNELS BECAUSE IT IS A WASTE OF TIME, EVEN THIS HEADING ALONE HAS MADE ME GO DIRECT TO COMMENT WITHOUT READING ANYTHING BECAUSE MY CONCLUSION IS THAT THERE IS NO SUBSTANCE, WORK ON THIS PERCEPTION IF YOU ARE ATTRACT ANY SENSIBLE PEOPLE TO YOUR SPEECHES.
This is amazing. There was a National Address I had no clue. During Kaunda days even I as a child would tune to radio one. We need to build the image of ECL mwe bantu.
There is absolutely no image to build unfortunately .Some people are just not meant for leadership roles .
Only Chipatans think this speech is inspiring because the nearest thing to an inspiring speech is Ngwazi Kamuzu talking about opponents being turned into meat for crocodiles or his affinity for mbumba Kazamira Tembo!
KX should take his stinking diarrhea excrement elsewhere and not to this blog! Just when will this vile low life realize that people are fed up with his stupid toilet acrobatics? Maybe someone should shoot him in the head to teach the thug a lesson.