President Hakainde Hichilema has appealed to political parties and their supporters to conduct peaceful campaigns ahead of the August 13 General Election, saying peace is essential for the country’s continued development.
Addressing a public gathering in Mawanda area of Lusangazi district, in Eastern Province, President Hichilema also urged citizens to vote for the United Party for National Development (UPND) to allow the government to continue implementing its development agenda.
The President said his administration still has programmes that require more time to improve the welfare of Zambians, adding that a renewed mandate will enable government to sustain and expand ongoing development initiatives.
Mr Hichilema said his administration will continue strengthening social protection programmes, including increased support under the Social Cash Transfer (SCT) programme, to assist vulnerable households.
He stated that when the UPND assumed office, the country was faced with a heavy debt burden and economic challenges, but his administration has since focused on restoring economic stability and channeling public resources towards national development.
The Head of State has reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the agriculture sector, saying the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP) will be enhanced to ensure farmers receive sufficient farming inputs to increase production.
He said agriculture remains a key pillar of Zambia’s economy and plays an important role in improving household incomes and national food security.
Meanwhile, former Msanzala Member of Parliament and UPND Aspiring Parliamentary Candidate Elias Daka commended President Hichilema for facilitating the construction of the Lusangazi and Msanzala bridges, saying the projects have improved transport and access to markets and social services.
Mr Daka further praised the government for the creation of the Msanzala and Lusangazi Central constituencies through the delimitation process, noting that the move would bring public services closer to the people and promote equitable development.
