Speaking on behalf of over 286 chiefs, senior chiefs and paramount chiefs, Chief Choongo, chairperson of the House of Chiefs, said the recent increase in government support has brought relief to many chiefdoms.
Chief Choongo noted that the upward adjustment of subsidies, which took effect in January this year, has significantly eased operations at palace level. He explained that the payments, which were disbursed by the end of March, are helping traditional leaders meet essential expenses such as water, electricity and administrative costs.
He further welcomed the doubling of wages for palace retainers, commonly known as Kapasos, describing the move as timely and necessary in supporting those who serve within chiefdoms.
The traditional leader also highlighted that the provision of motorbikes under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) has improved mobility for chiefs, enabling them to better serve their communities and respond to local needs more efficiently.
In addition, Chief Choongo pointed to ongoing infrastructure development, noting that new palace projects now include the construction of two-bedroom housing units for retainers—an initiative he described as a major step forward in improving living conditions.
He also commended government efforts aimed at fostering unity among traditional leaders, including facilitated exchange visits across different chiefdoms.
Chief Choongo expressed appreciation to President Hichilema for what he termed continued support to traditional leadership, stating that the measures are strengthening the role of chiefs in governance and community development.
You chiefs are an unnecessary drain on our economy
Celebrating your own numerations whilst those around you suffer in poverty
I fully agree. In addition to salary increases, the government also provides chiefs with palaces and vehicles—costs that are not directly tied to production and are therefore best classified as non-production overheads
One day they won’t be necessary for chiefdoms but the country is not there yet still need them for the unity of the country. This is buying time for other developments to take place they will then out do their usefulness, and hopefully fade peacefully.
Chiefs Thank Hichilema for bribes