Government reiterates significance of supporting traditional leaders

Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting traditional leaders and promoting development in chiefdoms.

Northern Province Acting Permanent Secretary Beauty Undi-Phiri says the government remains committed to ensuring that the welfare of traditional leaders and people across all chiefdoms in the country are well looked after.

Speaking during the installation ceremony of Chief Mwamba, Mpepe III in Mbala District, Ms, Undi-Phiri commended the Mambwe Royal Establishment for conducting a peaceful and united succession process.

Ms Undi-Phir has described the smooth transition of leadership as a demonstration of respect for traditional values and peaceful coexistence.

“The Government commends the Mambwe Royal Establishment for smooth succession, this is a clear testimony of the respect, value that the Mambwe people attach to traditional values and coexistence,” she said.

She disclosed that the government highly values the role that traditional leaders play in maintaining peace, preserving culture, and driving development in their respective chiefdoms.

Ms, Undi-Phiri further disclosed that construction of Chief Mwamba’s palace which had stalled at some point has now reached the procurement stage and is expected to be completed to enable the newly installed chief to relocate to a more suitable residence.

“Chief Mwamba place construction has stalled, i can now say that the process to complete the palace is underway and will be completed soon so that our chief can relocate to the palace. This initiative is in line with President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to ensuring that traditional leaders are provided with dignified and conducive working environments,” she said.

The Acting Permanent Secretary also appealed to the Mambwe Royal Establishment to continue working closely with the government in accelerating developmental programs aimed at improving the livelihoods of people in the chiefdom.

And Senior Chief Nsokolo of the Mambwe people expressed confidence that Chief Mwamba, Mpepe III would provide dedicated leadership and uphold the legacy of his predecessor.

“I am confident that the new Chief will provide dedicated leadership and uphold the legacy of his predecessor. I will continue to support him,” he said.

The senior Chief also urged all members of the royal establishment including those who were not selected for the throne to support the newly installed chief.

“I want to thank the Mambwe royal Establishment for their work in successfully managing the succession process, may i emphasized here that there can only be one chief at a time, i call on everyone to remain united and supported the new chief for the benefit of the Mambwe people,” he said.

Senior Chief Nsokolo also commended the government for its continued support to the traditional leadership.

The installation of Chief Mwamba Mpepe III marks a new chapter for the Mambwe people after the passing of the late Chief Mwamba.