The Head of State said Zambia is rich in natural resources capable of improving livelihoods, but emphasized that unlocking this potential requires both investment and access to land. He urged chiefs to collaborate closely with government by supporting development initiatives within their chiefdoms.
President Hichilema made the remarks during a meeting with traditional leaders held on the sidelines of the commissioning of the Leopards Hill Solar Project in the chiefdom of Chieftainess Nkomesha in Chongwe District.
Among those in attendance were Chief Kafwimbi, Chief Chikwanda, and Prince Kabwata Nkomeshya.
The President commended Chieftainess Nkomesha for her openness to investment, noting that her willingness to allocate land has enabled various development projects in her chiefdom. He further directed government ministers to actively engage traditional leaders and encourage them to release land for investment purposes.
Meanwhile, Chief Kafwimbi and Chief Chikwanda appealed to the government to address challenges affecting the rollout of windmill investment projects in their respective areas.
Prince Nkomeshya also expressed appreciation to the government for improving the welfare of traditional leaders through increased salaries and the construction of chiefs’ palaces.
