President Hichilema leads Choma Rally, Reaffirms Commitment to National Development

President Hakainde Hichilema today addressed hundreds of supporters at the Choma Cricket Club in Southern Province, providing an update on government progress and outlining the administration's continued commitment to economic transformation ahead of the August 2026 general elections.

Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd in a region where the United Party for National Development enjoys strong support, President Hichilema emphasized the critical importance of the upcoming electoral contest. "2026 is a must win so we can continue to do the work we have been doing," the President declared.

The President's address comes at a time of notable economic recovery for Zambia. The kwacha has recently been recognized as the world's best-performing currency against the US dollar, reflecting successful debt restructuring efforts, improved copper revenues, and restored investor confidence in the country's economic management.

President Hichilema highlighted the administration's work in revitalizing the mining sector: "We bring the mines back, more copper, more dollars." The President emphasized that economic growth forms the foundation of the government's development strategy, stating: "Seek ye economic growth, other things will fall into place – jobs, business opportunities, income."

Addressing the ongoing electricity challenges facing the nation, President Hichilema acknowledged the difficulties caused by load shedding while noting improvements. "We are sorry about load shedding. We are working on it, but there is still work to be done," he said, outlining government plans to increase coal-fired power generation to 2,500 megawatts. Citizens across Zambia have reported reduced load shedding hours in recent weeks as government interventions take effect.

The President characterized his first term as a period of essential corrective work following years of economic mismanagement. "We know there is still work to be done. We were correcting the errors – debt restructuring, the damage in the mines, law and order," he explained. With foundational reforms now largely in place, a second term would focus on leveraging these achievements for tangible improvements in citizens' lives.