Leaner Teams, Faster Talks





Reduced numbers target efficiency, better engagement, accelerate progress and speed up consensus-building.

By Francis Maingaila ♥️ 
Lusaka, Zambia24 — (28 November 2025) —The government and the Oasis Forum have agreed to adopt “leaner teams” in the ongoing national dialogue process, saying the reduced numbers will ensure faster talks, improve engagement and accelerate progress toward consensus, according to resolutions announced during a joint media briefing after a closed-door meeting at State House.

The two sides confirmed that the next round of discussions will take place either tomorrow or the following day, with a significantly smaller delegation intended to sharpen the focus and efficiency of the dialogue. 

Both parties expressed confidence that streamlined participation will help address key governance concerns more effectively.

Oasis Forum Chairperson Beauty Katebe said the decision followed extensive submissions from both parties on the need to strengthen the political playing field and enhance constructive engagement. 

She stressed that a reduced team would help eliminate unnecessary delays and allow for deeper, solution-oriented conversations.



President Hakainde Hichilema, who addressed journalists alongside the Forum, said the meeting was held in a spirit of mutual respect and sincere commitment to national unity. 

He acknowledged that divergent views are normal in national decision-making but emphasized that dialogue remains the most effective path for safeguarding peace.

Hichilema also disclosed that additional stakeholders—especially those with alternative views on the proposed constitutional amendment—will be engaged separately. 

A separate group holding opposing positions is expected to meet government officials on Monday, while the teams present at Friday’s briefing will reconvene tomorrow under the new, abridged structure.

The President reiterated that there are “no winners and no losers” in the process, underscoring the need for unity in diversity as the country confronts complex governance reforms. 

He thanked civil society actors, the Oasis Forum and government officials for their investment in consensus-building and peace.


Both sides concluded the briefing with a renewed commitment to sustaining dialogue as the primary tool for resolving national challenges and ensuring that Zambia moves forward with stability, inclusiveness and respect for differing views.


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