President HICHILEMA praises Zambians for peaceful 2024
By Mwila Nsofu
President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA has expressed gratitude to Zambians for fostering peace and unity throughout the year 2024.
And the President says Government has worked tirelessly to ensure that citizens are cushioned from the economic challenges the nation has faced as a result of the worst drought in living memory.
He says this has been done through various government policy interventions such as increased social cash transfer, cash for work, and other empowerment programmes targeting the most vulnerable communities during these difficult times.
In his New Year message to the nation, the President has thanked the cooperating partners for their support and the church for their collaboration with the government in mitigating the effects of the drought through impactful community outreach programmes aimed at alleviating hunger and disease.
And the President has commended the business community for its resilience and unwavering commitment in the face of the drought and energy crises, noting that their innovative solutions and steadfast dedication represents the spirit and determination that drives the nation forward.
He says the business community’s contribution has been pivotal in advancing various sectors such as agriculture and mining as well as empowering SMEs to foster economic growth through strategic partnerships.
Meanwhile President HICHILEMA has extended gratitude to the opposition for their role as governance partners in a constitutional democracy.
The President has noted that although parties may not agree on a lot of things, holding diverse opinions is a good benchmark of democracy.
President HICHILEMA notes that constructive criticism is important especially one rooted in peaceful coexistence as it is a cornerstone of democracy and that he remains open to such engagement.
This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC by State House Chief Communications Specialist CLAYSON HAMASAKA.
President HICHILEMA reiterated that Public resources are sacred and must be respected and that those who misuse them do so at their own peril.
The President said anyone involved in corruption will not be protected as Government is determined to fight the vice without discrimination.
In his New Year message to the nation the President commended law enforcement agencies for their determination in combating crime as the Government works towards fighting corruption.
Meanwhile, the President has thanked the Defense and Security Forces, noting that they deserve special recognition for maintaining peace and security in the country and answering to the peace time task of fighting drought through innovative farming.
He also extended his gratitude to the troops serving in peacekeeping missions abroad and prays for their safety as they work to bring peace to war-torn regions.
And the President praised health workers for their courage and dedication in serving citizens in hospitals and health centres across the republic.
He has also thanked teachers for their efforts in improving the quality of education and their gallantry in absorbing a surge of new learners that have come on board as a result of the free education policy.
President HICHILEMA has further commended sportsmen and women in various sporting disciplines for their heroic performances that saw them win various medals and earn them qualifications for international games.
The President said he looks forward to a brighter 2025 and has called for hard work and collaboration among citizens with government in addressing the country’s challenges and help in fostering economic growth.
