President Hakainde Hichilema has expressed gratitude to Zambians for the trust they placed in him during the 2021 general elections, stating that he does not take their support for granted.
Speaking at the launch of the UPND 2026–2031 Manifesto at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre, President Hichilema reflected on the challenges his administration inherited and outlined an ambitious plan aimed at accelerating economic growth, creating jobs, and improving living standards.
The President said Zambia was facing severe economic difficulties when the UPND assumed office in 2021, including debt distress, before later confronting challenges such as cholera outbreaks, drought and power shortages.
He said the country had since made significant progress, including restructuring 94 percent of its debt, restoring investor confidence, expanding free education and creating more than one million jobs.
According to President Hichilema, the new manifesto represents a shared vision between the UPND, its alliance partners and the Zambian people, building on promises made in 2021 and achievements recorded over the past five years.
Among the key targets outlined in the manifesto are increasing annual copper production to three million tonnes, raising maize production to 10 million tonnes, producing three million tonnes of soybeans, one million tonnes of wheat, expanding electricity generation to 10,000 megawatts, attracting five million tourists annually and achieving US$1 billion in beef exports.
The President said the economic programme is expected to generate approximately US$65 billion in annual economic value and create more than two million jobs.
He added that increased agricultural production would help lower the cost of living, particularly the price of mealie meal, while continued investment in energy infrastructure would help permanently end load shedding.
President Hichilema also announced plans to establish a public university in every province, expand transport infrastructure, modernise rail networks and operationalise a 24-hour economy through greater public-private sector collaboration.
He further revealed that government intends to ensure every province has an international airport as part of broader efforts to improve connectivity and stimulate economic activity.
The President urged UPND members not to become complacent ahead of the August elections, calling on supporters to actively campaign and mobilise votes.
He concluded by encouraging citizens to embrace peace, unity, hard work and progress, saying Zambia’s future depends on collective effort and national cohesion.
The launch was attended by Vice President Mutale Nalumango and representatives of UPND alliance partners.
