Family Development Initiatives (FDI) has supported President Hakainde Hichilema’s renewed call for the strengthening of family values, describing loving and stable families as the foundation of a responsible and prosperous nation.
The President made these remarks on Friday, 20th February 2026, during the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly in Parliament, where he expressed concern over rising divorce rates and the weakening of family structures in the country.
FDI Team Leader Sheikh Yussuf Ayami noted that the President’s address underscored the importance of collective responsibility in safeguarding the institution of marriage.
He observed that the Head of State called upon partners, traditional leaders, marriage counsellors, religious leaders, and civic stakeholders to work together in promoting family unity and moral integrity.
Sheikh Ayami stated that the President rightly emphasised morality and ethical conduct as central pillars shaping the character of families, communities, and the nation at large.
He further noted that the government’s efforts to address social vices such as alcohol abuse, drug and substance misuse were critical interventions, given their direct impact on family wellbeing and social stability.
The Muslim faith leader also welcomed the President’s recognition of teenage pregnancies and child marriages as serious social challenges that undermine family structures and limit the potential of the nation’s youth.
Sheikh Ayami observed that initiatives such as free education, skills training, and empowerment programmes were significant measures aimed at restoring hope and opportunity for vulnerable families.
He particularly commended the reported efforts to counsel and reintegrate thousands of teenage girls who had previously dropped out of school due to early marriage.
FDI further acknowledged the President’s firm stance against gender-based violence, noting the establishment of one-stop centres and fast-track courts as important steps in protecting victims and ensuring justice.
Sheikh Ayami reiterated the President’s appeal for victims and families to report all cases of gender-based violence so that perpetrators may be held accountable.
He also recognised the commendation extended to traditional leaders, the church, and civil society organisations for their role in combating social vices and promoting family cohesion.
FDI welcomed the continued expansion of social protection programmes, including social cash transfers and food security initiatives, describing them as essential support mechanisms for vulnerable households.
Sheikh Ayami stressed that a caring and loving Zambian society must ensure equal opportunities and fair distribution of resources to support families without discrimination.
He affirmed that FDI remains committed to working with partners, including the United Nations and other stakeholders, to promote family dignity, strengthen social values, and build resilient communities capable of withstanding modern social pressures.