President Hichilema Pays Respect To Fallen Heroes

President Hakainde Hichilema, accompanied by Mozambique’s President Daniel Chapo, today led dignitaries in laying wreaths at Freedom Statue in Lusaka.

Wreath-laying at the adored statue is symbolic respect in honour of heroes and heroines who died during Zambia’s struggle for independence from Britain.

Zambia celebrated her 61st independence anniversary today – October 24, 2025. President Chapo was the guest of honour at this year’s celebration.

President Hichilema arrived at the Freedom Statue shortly after 09:00 hours and would be joined by the visiting president a few minutes later. The two presidents stood on the saluting dais as Zambia Army soldiers on parade performed military rites to honour fallen heroes. President Chapo then went to lay a wreath, followed by President Hichilema. Defence and service chiefs laid their wreaths and were followed by diplomats who are accredited to Zambia.

President Hichilema interacted with senior Government officials who were present and other ordinary people, before leaving Freedom Statue.