By Francis Chipalo
REPUBLICAN President Hakainde Hichilema says tomorrow, 24th October, 2026, marks 62 years since Zambia’s forefathers and mothers lifted the national flag with pride and determination to define the nation’s destiny.
President Hichilema has told Zed Gossip news in a statement that on 24th October, 1964, Zambia achieved the sovereign right to begin a journey to build a united, peaceful and prosperous nation.
The Head of State honoured the courage and sacrifice of independence heroes and heroines including Kenneth David Kaunda, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula, Simon Mwansa Kapwepwe, Alexander Grey Zulu, Humphrey Mulemba, Nalumino Mundia, Mama Julia Chikamoneka and Mama Betty Chilombo Chilunga, among others.
This year’s commemoration is being held under the theme: Zambia at 62: Our journey, our growth, our future.
President Hichilema alias Bally said at 62, Zambia reflects on its journey with pride, having walked the path of peace, unity, stability and progress under the motto One Zambia, One Nation, One People.
HH noted that the country has built schools, hospitals, roads, airports and power stations, held elections and witnessed smooth transitions of leadership, with the spirit of unity keeping the nation together through every challenge.
You could be the next winner of K20,000 sign up here
On growth, the President celebrated citizens as a smart, hard-working people, saluting the resilience of farmers, the hard work of miners, the creativity of the youth, the courage of the armed forces, the resourcefulness of women and the tenacity of entrepreneurs.
Looking to the future, President Hichilema said government’s ultimate focus is now the Grow Zambia Agenda which moves the country from economic stabilisation to accelerated growth.
“We want to produce more maize, more wheat and more copper. We are generating more electricity, attracting more tourists and facilitating more exports, all while safeguarding the vulnerable and building strong institutions,” President Hichilema said.
He described Zambia as a family made up of unique cultures from all corners of the country but united as one, stating that when faced with challenges, Zambians do not break but come together.
The President saluted the youth, noting that they fought for independence and democracy and today remain the backbone of the economy, innovators and leaders.
He said Zambia is blessed with abundant natural resources which must be protected and used sustainably for present and future generations.
“We stood tall through every storm. Let us now look to the future with confidence, and recommit ourselves to hard and smart work, discipline, integrity and service. We are a nation that continues to build, to reform and to rise together,” he said.
President Hichilema has since called on citizens to celebrate the 62nd Independence Anniversary with joy and unity, in peace and responsibly.
Looking for the latest sports odds and markets? Check them out here.
