Lusaka, Zambia – Kaputa Member of Parliament and Minister of Youth, Sport and Arts Hon. Elvis Nkandu has shared an emotional message of gratitude and reflection as Zambia approaches the dissolution of the Thirteenth National Assembly.
In a heartfelt post shared on his official Facebook page, Nkandu described his time in Cabinet as a “rare honour and privilege,” thanking President Hakainde Hichilema and the Zambian people for giving him the opportunity to serve.
“From Marketeer to Cabinet Minister”
Hon. Nkandu, who has often spoken proudly of his humble roots, reminded citizens that he comes from a background as a marketeer, a journey he says he never imagined would lead him to Cabinet.
“Coming from a humble background as a marketeer, I could never have imagined that one day I would be entrusted with the opportunity to serve as a Cabinet Minister of the Republic of Zambia,” he wrote.
The Minister said his appointment came with mixed reactions, with some questioning whether someone from the marketplace, particularly Chisokone Market, was fit for such a high national responsibility.
However, he stated that with public support and resilience, he managed to walk the journey with determination.
Gratitude to President Hichilema
Nkandu paid special tribute to President Hakainde Hichilema, describing his appointment as proof that leadership should not be defined by one’s background.
“I wish to express my deepest gratitude to the President… for the confidence and trust he placed in me,” Nkandu said.
He noted that the President’s trust in someone of his humble upbringing gave him the opportunity to demonstrate that national service is possible for any citizen.
Highlights of His Tenure at Youth, Sport and Arts Ministry
The Minister stated that serving in the Ministry gave him the chance to contribute to national development through youth empowerment, sports growth, and arts promotion.
“To have been entrusted with the responsibility of helping shape the future of our young people, advancing sports development, and supporting the growth of arts and culture… has been one of the greatest privileges,” he said.
Nkandu also acknowledged that his time in office was not without challenges, controversies, and criticism, but maintained that every decision was made with the nation’s best interest at heart.
Appreciation for Ministry Staff and Stakeholders
The Kaputa lawmaker praised the staff at the Ministry of Youth, Sport and Arts, including permanent secretaries, directors, technocrats, and support staff, describing them as the backbone behind every milestone achieved.
He also thanked youths, athletes, coaches, sports administrators, musicians, actors, dancers, filmmakers, and creatives across Zambia for their resilience and inspiration.
“This Chapter Closes With Gratitude”
As Parliament heads toward dissolution, Nkandu said he is leaving office with pride and gratitude for the work done during his tenure.
“To the people of Zambia, and indeed the people of Kaputa District, once again, thank you for allowing me the privilege to serve,” he wrote.
He concluded by wishing the nation well and praying for continued blessings upon Zambia.
“May God richly bless you all, and may God continue to bless the Republic of Zambia.”