Not Just HH: UPND Gets It Done
By Francis Maingaila
Lusaka, Zambia24 – (11-05-2025) — The United Party for National Development (UPND) has reiterated that the numerous development projects taking shape across the country are not solely the initiatives of President Hakainde Hichilema, but the collective vision and commitment of the ruling party.
UPND Media Director Mark Simuwe made this clarification in a statement issued to the press, saying it was important for the public to understand that the developmental agenda being rolled out—especially in the capital and other key regions—has full backing from the party.
“We must continue to remind the public that the development projects underway in various communities, especially around the capital and other regions, are not just personal initiatives of the President,” Simuwe said.
“These projects are fully supported by the entire UPND party. We appreciate the President’s efforts and reaffirm our commitment as a party to support and defend his development agenda.”
Copperbelt Projects Brought Back to Life
Simuwe highlighted the Copperbelt Province as a case in point where critical infrastructure developments had been stalled but are now back on track, thanks to decisive action by the UPND government.
He cited a $450 million infrastructure project that was abandoned at 60% completion by the previous administration.
“The former Minister of Finance under the PF government ordered all projects below 80% to be halted, despite cooperating partners being willing to finance them,” he said.
When the UPND took office, President Hichilema reportedly engaged multiple sources to secure funding, even amid the country’s challenging debt landscape.
Results That Matter: Jobs, Water, Livelihoods
The revival of the Copperbelt project has already begun transforming lives:pp00p0
17,000 new household water connections, benefiting over one million people.
Irrigation systems introduced to support 17,000 farmers, mitigating the effects of climate change.
Aquaculture initiatives to promote sustainable livelihoods and reduce environmental degradation.
A boost to the hospitality and tourism sectors, spurred by new roads and visitor-friendly infrastructure.
Local employment opportunities through the establishment of Midway Palms and related administrative facilities.
“This is the kind of impact the UPND government is committed to delivering—development that speaks to the real needs of the people,” Simuwe explained.
Transforming Water and Sanitation Access
Water infrastructure is also receiving major attention. In Kantanshi, Suwerwa, Kitwe, Mufulira, and Mwambashi:
A 4,000-cubic-litre water treatment plant is under construction to expand clean water access.
Old and failing pipelines are being replaced in Kitwe, marking the first major overhaul in decades.
Other towns are seeing similar upgrades with support from international partners, creating jobs for engineers, technicians, and skilled workers.
Next Focus: Roads and District-Level Transparency
Simuwe said while water and sanitation are a top priority, the next phase of development will focus on road infrastructure, with plans to publish district-level progress reports to foster public accountability.
“Citizens deserve to see what is happening in their own backyards. Development must be inclusive and trackable,” Simuwe emphasized.
One Vision, One Party, One Agenda
He concluded by stressing that President Hichilema’s development programme is being driven not by individual ambition but by a unified party vision.
“This is a collective effort. The President leads with clarity and compassion, but the UPND stands with him, shoulder to shoulder, to ensure every promise becomes a reality,” Simuwe said.
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