We will deliver more in 2026 – President Hichilema

In 2026 we will push harder; we will deliver more. We will continue building an economy that works for everyone and not just a few people, says President Hakainde Hichilema. President Hichilema said this in his address to the nation on the eve of the New Year.

The President’s message was broadcast on the national broadcaster, ZNBC TV and radio.

He said the New Dawn government agrees that more still remains to be done for Zambians.

“In 2026 we will push harder; we will deliver more. We will continue building an economy that works for everyone and not just a few.

“We will protect the peace that holds us together as One Zambia, One Nation and One People. We will not stop until every Zambia benefits from that which we are fighting for,” President Hichilema said.

President Hichilema admitted that that there are socio-economic pressures of a recovering economy, which results into pain and frustrations among citizens.

“But hear me clearly, we are not where we were in 2021 –   certainly not. We are no longer retracting our steps; we are moving ahead with purpose.

“We are rising and we are rebuilding” he said.

The President looked back and highlighted some of the gains which have been made by the New Dawn administration.

“We restored free education and opened the door of opportunity for every child of Zambia. We brought back law and order, dignity and indeed fairness.

“We strengthened our currency, stabilised our economy, restored the mining sector with thousands of jobs and business opportunities. We are now knocking on the doors of one million metric tonnes of copper production this year,” he said.

President Hichilema added that this year, Government restored agriculture such that there was a bumper harvest of almost four million metric tons of maize after the worst drought in living memory.

“We created thousands of jobs in the public sector, unlocking empowerment programmes and expanded the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), so that communities can shape their own future – decide on their priorities for development.

“These are not promises but victories for every Zambia. The journey may be tough. But the destination is worth it. We must trust the process. The path may be long but God is with us,”

He further said the progress that has been made is significant, undeniable and unstoppable.

President Hichilema indicated that as the New Year dawns, “and as we enter the election year, let us lift our hands, hearts and dreams and lift the banner of peace and dialogue.”

“We have come veery far and let us not squander this effort and by God’s grace, the best is still ahead of us. May God bless you, your family and our beloved country Zambia,” said President Hichilema.