Strengthening Zambia's Future

Government and Political Leaders Unite on Youth Empowerment and the Fight Against Corruption

By Lusaka, Zambia — (06-03-2025) – President Hakainde Hichilema's administration is making substantial strides to tackle the country's rising poverty, social challenges, and increasing youth unemployment.

At a media briefing, Fr. Frank Bwalya, Director-General for the UPND Presidential Support Programme, emphasized the government's commitment to improving the living conditions of its citizens. 

He explained that President Hichilema is acutely aware of the struggles facing many Zambians and understands the connection between social ills and the poor conditions in which many people live. 

He pointed out that addressing issues like early marriages, gender-based violence, prostitution, illiteracy, and corruption requires more intervention to create opportunities for the nation's most vulnerable.

Fr. Bwalya reiterated that no government can help lift its people from poverty without first addressing ignorance and illiteracy. 

He highlighted the government's fulfillment of a key campaign promise—the provision of free education—and called on parents to ensure their children attend school. 

He stressed that this is essential for economic independence, drawing from the President’s personal experience with the benefits of free education.

Fr. Bwalya encouraged young people to seize opportunities to gain technical skills, such as carpentry, fashion design, plumbing, welding, and bricklaying, noting that these skills are increasingly important for accessing emerging job markets. 

He further emphasized that the government’s initiatives, including the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), Social Cash Transfers, and Cash for Work programs, are crucial in uplifting living standards and tackling youth unemployment.

Fr. Bwalya also underscored the government's commitment to revitalizing Zambia's mining sector as part of its economic recovery plan. 

He noted that through these efforts, including the reopening of dormant mines like Luanshya Mine, the government aims to increase copper exports, bolster foreign exchange, and reduce the high cost of living, thereby stabilizing the economy.

Robert Chikwelete, Vice President of the Economic Front (EF), reaffirmed his party’s partnership with the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND) in the ongoing fight against corruption. 

He noted that both parties are united in their goal to eradicate corruption, which he described as a significant barrier to Zambia’s development.

Chikwelete highlighted the importance of transparency and accountability, acknowledging that even members of the ruling party have been held accountable for wrongdoing, a clear indication that the fight against corruption is impartial. 

He also revealed that the Economic Front plans to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the UPND, further solidifying their alliance in this critical fight.

As Zambia continues its push towards economic growth, these initiatives demonstrate a commitment to addressing the challenges of poverty, unemployment, and corruption. 

Both government and opposition leaders agree that only through collaboration and strong leadership can the nation pave the way for a prosperous and equitable future.

Fr. Bwalya reaffirmed that poverty remains the root cause of many social issues, and President Hichilema’s government is prioritizing economic empowerment and growth as the solution to these pressing challenges.