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President Hakainde Hichilema attended the 2024 Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena traditional ceremony of the Bemba language community in Monwe District, Northern Province. In his speech, President Hichilema stressed that unity and cultural preservation are important factors for national development.
Speaking at the ceremony, the President stressed the need for the country to preserve its rich traditions and cultural heritage which is the foundation of the national identity. He urged traditional leaders from across Zambia to continue to promote unity through mutual learning and visits, stressing that “what this country needs is unity in diversity. We can achieve more on the platform of unity.”
President Hichilema also commended the people of Northern Province for the improvement in maize production, attributing the success to favourable rainfall patterns. He encouraged continued efforts in agriculture to further improve productivity and national food security, and assured government support for irrigation projects in the region.
The President used the opportunity to commend the Paramount Chief, His Royal Highness Chitimukulu, who has played a significant role in promoting peace and unity by embracing other traditional leaders across the country. This year’s ceremony was attended by over 33 chiefs and 40 dignitaries, including former Vice President Nefus Muba, which fully reflected the spirit of national cohesion.
Besides cultural matters, President Hichilema also spoke about progress in infrastructure development, particularly the rehabilitation of Kasama Airport, which facilitates the Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony. He announced that the contract for the rehabilitation of Mansa Airport had been signed and plans were in place to improve all provincial airports to facilitate air travel across Zambia.
The President also called on the people of the Northern Province to fully exploit the region’s mineral resources through legal and sustainable mining practices, stressing the potential for economic growth if managed responsibly.
In his speech, Mwene Lubemba Chitimukulu Kanyata Manga II, through the speech of Senior Chief Nqula, thanked President Hichilema for hosting the event and the government’s commitment to regional development, especially in improving Kasama Airport and supporting local infrastructure projects.
The annual Ukusefya Pa Ng’wena ceremony remains an important cultural gathering that promotes unity and the preservation of traditions among the Bemba and wider Zambian communities.
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