President Hakainde Hichilema has commended the church for its continued partnership with the government in advancing national development.
Speaking when he met leaders of the Catholic Church in Southern Province at his Harmony Farm in Choma, the Head of State thanked the Catholic Church for working with the government in supporting the provision of health and education services to the Zambian people.
ZANIS reports that President Hichilema said the collaboration between the church and the state was essential for the well-being of all citizens.
He also called on the church to contribute towards production by encouraging its members to be involved in agriculture.
“I encourage the church to actively participate in agriculture to support national food security.” President Hichilema said.
He further encouraged the church to offer prayers of thanksgiving for God’s abundant grace, particularly for the generous rainfall the country has been blessed with this season.
“We must thank God for the rains that will sustain communities and strengthen our agricultural productivity. God has really been gracious to us,” he added.
President Hichilema also praised the church’s leadership in guiding communities with faith and resilience during the period of drought that saw all Zambians sustained.
He underscored how collective prayer and community engagement had helped Zambia overcome challenges and sustain essential agricultural and social programs.
Speaking on behalf of other priests present, Bishop Valentine Kalumba, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to continue working closely with the government.
He emphasized that the partnership between church and government strengthened initiatives across multiple sectors.
“We remain steadfast partners with government, supporting health, education, and social services for our people,” said Bishop Kalumba
The Bishop commended President Hichilema for his exemplary leadership, noting that he led not only in words but also through action.
He said that by choosing to spend his holiday at his farm rather than elsewhere, the President demonstrated fiscal responsibility while actively contributing to national food production.
Bishop Kalumba further observed that President Hichilema’s actions set a powerful example for citizens and fellow leaders alike, showing how prudent management of resources can directly support national priorities.
Among the Catholic leaders that met President Hichilema were Bishop Valentine Kalumba, of the Catholic Diocese of Livingstone, Father Cletus Mwiila and Father Gregory Mulobela from the Catholic Diocese of Monze.
