Zambia's Vice President calls on traditional leaders to strengthen their partnership with the government to accelerate development.

Written by: Ayman Ragab

Zambia's Vice President, Mutile Mutile Nalumango, called on traditional leaders to strengthen their partnership with the government in order to accelerate national development, consolidate peace and unity, and improve the living standards of citizens through the effective implementation of development programs that focus on the needs of the population.

Nalumango's remarks came during a meeting with traditional chiefs Nsukulo and Tafuna in the Mbala region, where she emphasized that the current political climate presents an opportunity for Zambians to support a leadership that has proven its ability to deliver tangible development achievements. She noted that the endorsement of President Hakainde Hichilema's re-election by some opposition leaders reflects growing confidence in his leadership.

The Vice President urged traditional leaders to continue supporting initiatives that promote economic growth, social progress, and national unity, stressing that Zambia cannot afford to squander the development gains achieved in recent years, and expressing her confidence that voters will vote to maintain the development path in the elections scheduled for August 13.

Improved economic stability

For his part, the chief traditional leader Tafuna affirmed that Zambia’s foreign exchange reserves, which amounted to US$6.5 billion, reflect the improved economic stability in the country and highlight the positive results of the sound economic policies implemented by the current government.

He added that key government programs, foremost among them free education, increased allocations to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), and expanded scholarship programs, have contributed to easing the financial burden on families, improving access to education, and providing better prospects for young people.

Tafuna also welcomed the joining of more political parties to the United Party for National Development (UPND) coalition, saying that the widening circle of support for President Hichilema reflects growing confidence in the government’s commitment to achieving sustainable development, economic recovery and strengthening national stability.

For his part, the chief traditional leader Nsokolo called on the UPND party and its allies to maintain their unity and continue working to ensure the continued implementation of government development programs after the 2026 general elections, in a way that serves the interests of all citizens.

Nsokolo also praised the government’s continued support for traditional institutions, both during cultural events and in times of challenge, assuring the Vice President that she and the UPND party would receive a warm welcome upon their return to the region during the election campaign period.