PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema has said that this year’s general election is crucial for the United Party for National Development (UPND) to secure victory, in order to sustain Zambia’s economic growth agenda.
Speaking during a public engagement in Choma yesterday, President Hichilema noted that the country’s gross domestic product (GDP) is nearing US$36 billion, up from US$18 billion before UPND took office.
He said while the economy is stabilising, more work remains to be done, stressing the need for continuity in Government to sustain progress.
“We care for you, the people of Zambia. This administration delivers to improve the living standards of the people. Whatever we have done, there is still a lot of work,” he said.
The President highlighted increased copper sales, which have boosted foreign exchange earnings and strengthened the local currency against major convertible currencies.
On energy, he said load shedding is improving due to interventions such as solar projects and the upcoming Maamba Phase Two coal power station.
Turning to agriculture, President Hichilema assured farmers who supplied maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) that payments will be made soon.
He explained that delays were caused by excess maize purchases, with 1.6 million metric tons (mt) bought instead of the budgeted 500,000mt.
He urged banks to expedite payments to farmers.
Zambia Daily Mail
