President Hakainde Hichilema led a tour of the Mansa Trades Institute to assess the progress of a Constituency Development Fund (CDF) project focused on skills development. The project, facilitated by the institute, highlights the UPND New Dawn government’s commitment to enhancing skills development and empowering the youth across the country.

In a display of bipartisan collaboration, PF Bahati MP Hon Leevan Chibombwe joined President Hakainde Hichilema (HH) during the tour of the trade school specializing in the production and repair of school desks within his constituency. The event showcased a departure from political rivalry as Hon Chibombwe and President HH shared a common goal of advancing the development agenda for the people of Bahati and Luapula at large.

Miles Sampa, PF president has said under the rebranded PF leadership, this cooperative effort is applauded, emphasizing a commitment to setting aside political differences for the greater good. The PF leadership highlighted the shift away from past practices that would have seen punitive measures taken against a member for participating in a developmental event with the President.

In a statement, Miles Sampa assured Hon Chibombwe that there would be no such reprisals for his collaboration with President HH. The rebranded PF is moving away from divisive politics to embrace a more modern and civilized approach, fostering a culture of love and unity in diversity within the democratic principles of One Zambia; One Nation.

Quoting the Bible, the statement emphasized the importance of recognizing the right time for different pursuits—drawing a clear line between development-focused activities and political engagements. With no impending by-election in Bahati, the focus shifts entirely to the development agenda for the constituents.

During the visit, President Hichilema expressed enthusiasm for the innovative skills development initiatives taking place at the institute. Notably, learners showcased their ability to assemble high-quality desks using recycled materials, exemplifying the kind of creativity and sustainability the government aims to promote nationwide.

President Hichilema emphasized the government’s dedication to promoting local industries and job creation, stating that no school under the UPND administration would be allowed to import desks. The focus is on empowering local communities, fostering skill development, and generating employment opportunities.

The President underscored the importance of a productive Zambia, urging citizens to work diligently and in an organized manner to achieve national development goals. The commitment to skills development aligns with the broader vision of the UPND government to create a more prosperous and empowered nation.

President Hakainde Hichilema’s visit to the Mansa Trades Institute follows the government’s pledge to prioritize education, skills development, and job creation. The CDF project at the institute is just one example of the initiatives aimed at equipping Zambians with the tools they need for personal and national growth.

The Namibian First Lady, Monica Geingos, and the current President of the Organization of African First Ladies (OAFLAD), has touched down in Zambia to participate in the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference 2023. Mrs. Geingos, who arrived at 13:48 hours yesterday, was warmly received by Zambia’s First Lady, Mutinta Hichilema, at the Kenneth Kaunda International Airport.

The highlight of Mrs. Geingos’s visit is her role in officiating at the Africa CDC Youth Pre-Conference scheduled to take place from November 25th to 26th in Lusaka. The event aims to facilitate meaningful engagement between the Africa CDC and young people, creating a platform for critical reflections on the current state of public health in Africa.

The overarching goal of the conference is to advance and institutionalize strategic collaboration between Africa CDC and the youth demographic. It provides an opportunity for young people across the continent to exchange perspectives on the role of youth in public health and share innovative solutions for meaningful engagement in this crucial area.

The chosen theme for this year’s CDC conference is “Youth Leadership for a Safer and Healthier Africa,” signaling a focus on empowering and involving the younger generation in the ongoing efforts to enhance public health across the continent.

As Mrs. Geingos assumes her role in officiating at the conference, the event is expected to foster collaboration, generate insights, and promote innovative solutions for addressing public health challenges. The participation of distinguished figures such as Mrs. Geingos underscores the importance of uniting leaders and youth advocates in the shared goal of creating a safer and healthier Africa. The conference represents a valuable opportunity for countries to exchange ideas and strategies to enhance youth involvement in shaping the future of public health on the continent.

Cornelius Mweetwa, Chief Government Spokesperson and Information and Media Minister, has conveyed President Hakainde Hichilema’s commitment to fostering greater representation of Zambians in international organizations, particularly highlighting the African Union (AU).

During a courtesy call on the African Union Commissioner for Trade, Minerals, and Industry, Albert Muchanga, Mr. Mweetwa emphasized President Hichilema’s desire to see more Zambians assume roles in international bodies. Acknowledging the critical role of Zambian professionals in international organizations, Mr. Mweetwa highlighted their capacity to advocate for the country’s positions on key global matters.

Speaking about the President’s vision, Mr. Mweetwa stressed that Zambians serving in international roles should project a positive image of the country on the global stage.

Additionally, Mr. Mweetwa touched upon a recent Presidential directive concerning government workers’ travel expenses. He stated that any government official traveling at government expense is required to produce a detailed report justifying their travel. This directive, particularly targeted at ministers, is intended to ensure transparency and accountability. Ministers are expected to present reports during Cabinet meetings, outlining the specifics of their travel, matters discussed in meetings, and the tangible benefits for Zambia.

Commenting on the directive, Mr. Muchanga echoed its importance, affirming the need for accountability in government-related travel. He emphasized that ministers’ reports are essential for informed decision-making and contribute to Zambia’s active participation and benefit in international forums.

Mr. Muchanga also shed light on a challenge faced by the African Union, where member states’ ministers frequently fail to attend crucial meetings, leading to delays in continental decision-making. He cited instances of meeting cancellations due to the inability to meet the required quorum.

The statement on this matter was provided by Inutu Mwanza, First Secretary-Press and Tourism at the Zambian mission in Ethiopia.