HH Closes Nationwide Campaign in Luapula With Fresh Development Pledges

President Hakainde Hichilema has wrapped up his nationwide campaign in Luapula Province, promising sustained investment in agriculture, health, education and infrastructure to lift livelihoods and strengthen food security.

Addressing a rally in Milenge, the President said a re-elected UPND government would expand the number of Farmer Input Support Programme beneficiaries as it drives towards a target of 10 million tonnes of maize. He also pledged a full district hospital, better roads to move farmers' produce, new schools and fresh investment, alongside wider social cash transfers, cash-for-work schemes, youth recruitment and free education. He urged residents to vote UPND on Thursday.

In Chembe, President Hichilema promised more social cash transfers, cash-for-work and business opportunities, additional health facilities, clean and safe drinking water and continued support to farmers, appealing to voters to re-elect the party so government could do more.

At Chipili, he committed to improved access to clean and running water, rural electrification and better roads. The President said the Food Reserve Agency would keep buying maize, with farmers paid within two days, and that more would receive fertiliser support. He further pledged to complete the district administration offices, police infrastructure and Mwenda Boarding School, upgrade Chipili Health Centre and restore its mortuary. Other commitments included a district hospital, an upgrade of the Old Kamwanabwa Road, a new school and modern bus stop, and permanent jobs for nurses and teachers currently serving as volunteers.

President Hichilema said his final rally, at Mwansabombwe, completed a tour that has taken him through districts in all ten provinces. He urged Luapula's voters to stand behind the UPND on 13 August to protect the development gains already made and allow the work to continue.