President Hakainde Hichilema has challenged Zambians to rise to the occasion and promote, preserve, protect and defend Zambia’s heritage.
President Hichilema says it is time for Zambians to take pride and spread the country’s heritage to the outside world.
The Head of State noted that branding Zambia’s national identity is the responsibility of tourism agents, manufacturers, government officials, the private sector and other stakeholders, including individuals to align their energies and strategies towards the realisation of the Brand Zambia Initiative.
President Hichilema disclosed this when he officially launched the Brand Zambia Initiative that is anchored on putting the country’s national identity, by promoting economic growth, attracting investment, and instilling a sense of cultural and national pride.
President Hichilema also unveiled the logo of the brand that depicts Zambia’s rich identity and heritage.
He further challenged the Brand Zambia Initiative Technical Committee to work closely with BuyZed Campaign Founder, Evans Ngoma, to heighten and market Zambia to the world.
President Hichilema noted that Zambia is endowed with abundant natural resources that can be harnessed to achieve her goal, vision and determination of realising the brand Initiative.
He wants all Zambians to participate in shaping the country’s future by ensuring that Zambia becomes a tourist hub through capitalising on the natural resources.
President Hichilema further underscored the importance of upholding peace, unity, hard work and patriotism among Zambians.
Meanwhile, the Head of State has expressed displeasure over negative publicity of Zambia by some people and encouraged citizens to preach and spread good news at all platforms about their country.
Speaking earlier, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) Resident Representative, James Wakiaga, said the initiative will help redefine Zambia’s image both domestically and internationally.
Dr Wakiaga said the initiative will play a role in unifying the country and pledged the UNDP’s financial support to the government.
Meanwhile, Sophie Masipa, the Brand Zambia Initiative Ambassador, highlighted the criteria implored to arrive at “Zambia Moves You”, that will be used to identify strategies associated with what the country offers.
