President Hichilema Calls for Closer State-Church Cooperation

President Hichilema Calls for Closer State-Church Cooperation

President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed that the State and the Church remain inseparable partners in Zambia’s journey toward social and economic development, stressing that both institutions must complement rather than compete with each other. He made the remarks in Kabwe on Sunday during the United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Synod’s 60th Anniversary celebrations at Geoffrey Ucar Chitalu Stadium.

The President told hundreds of congregants, clergy, and community leaders that government recognises the Church as a pillar of national unity and moral guidance. He said Zambia’s foundations as a Christian nation demand constant cooperation between spiritual and secular leadership to foster values of honesty, discipline, and service.

Mr Hichilema described the UCZ as a faithful partner whose work in education and health has helped shape generations of Zambians. He acknowledged the Church’s wide network of schools, colleges, and clinics as an extension of government efforts to improve access to essential services, particularly in rural areas where public facilities remain limited. “Government values the role you play in lifting communities through education and health,” he said. “We must walk together because our missions serve the same people.”

He stressed that the relationship between the State and faith organisations should be characterised by mutual respect. Neither, he said, should seek to dominate the other. Instead, they must act as partners in building a society guided by justice and accountability. Mr Hichilema added that national development cannot succeed without a moral foundation, and the Church is best placed to nurture that foundation among citizens.

The President urged clergy to continue speaking against corruption, gender-based violence, and tribal divisions. He said moral decay undermines economic progress and that pulpits should be used to unite rather than divide communities. He reminded the congregation that leaders in both government and the Church have a shared responsibility to protect the vulnerable and to uphold truth.

UCZ Synod Bishop Festus Chulu welcomed the President’s message and thanked him for joining the church’s diamond jubilee. He said the UCZ will continue working with the government to implement projects that improve education, health care, and environmental protection. The bishop added that faith leaders must help citizens align spiritual values with national development plans.

President Hichilema used the event to commend all denominations for their contributions to peace-building and reconciliation, particularly during election periods. He said the country has benefited greatly from church-led mediation efforts that reduce political tension and encourage dialogue among leaders. “These institutions have always stood with our people in moments of trial,” he noted. “Their role in shaping the nation’s conscience is undeniable.”

The celebration drew participants from across Central Province and beyond, including choirs, youth groups, and traditional leaders. Prayers and testimonies were offered in honour of missionaries who founded the UCZ in 1965 through a merger of Protestant missions. A commemorative service recognised their contribution to nation-building long before independence.

In his address, Mr Hichilema reaffirmed government’s commitment to protect freedom of worship and religious expression. He said policy reforms will continue to support the work of faith organisations that provide education, health, and charitable services. He emphasised that Zambia’s Christian identity should manifest in everyday governance, from fiscal discipline to honest leadership.

The President closed his speech by encouraging citizens to embrace a spirit of service. He said when government and the Church operate as one community of purpose, the nation will achieve sustainable development rooted in faith and integrity.

The UCZ anniversary ended with a joint prayer session for national peace and prosperity. The President was accompanied by several Cabinet ministers and senior officials who later toured church facilities in Kabwe. Congregants applauded the renewed partnership, saying it signified a new chapter of co-operation between the State and the faith community.