PRESIDENT HICHILEMA COMMENDS CATHOLIC CHURCH–GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP.

PRESIDENT HICHILEMA COMMENDS CATHOLIC CHURCH–GOVERNMENT PARTNERSHIP.

President Hakainde Hichilema has commended the catholic church for its continued collaboration with government in promoting national development, describing the partnership as critical to the country’s social and economic progress. The president made the remarks during a meeting with catholic church leaders from southern province at his harmony farm in Choma.

President Hichilema acknowledged the church’s long-standing contribution to the delivery of health and education services, noting that faith-based institutions continue to play a key role in reaching communities where government services may be limited. He said such collaboration helps improve the quality of life for many Zambians and strengthens national unity.

The president emphasized that a strong church–state partnership is essential for national well-being and called on the church to continue supporting government development agenda. He encouraged the clergy to inspire their congregations to take part in agricultural activities as a way of increasing production, enhancing household food security and contributing to national economic growth.

President Hichilema also called for prayers of thanksgiving for the good rainfall received this season, which he attributed to god’s abundant grace. He further praised the catholic church for providing moral leadership, faith and resilience to communities during the recent drought, saying the church helped sustain hope among many Zambians during a difficult period.

Speaking on behalf of other priests, Livingstone diocese bishop valentine Kalumba reaffirmed the church’s commitment to continued collaboration with government across various sectors, including education, health and social development. He said the partnership between the church and the state remains important in addressing national challenges and promoting sustainable development.

Bishop Kalumba also commended President Hichilema’s leadership style and fiscal discipline, noting that the president leads by example. He said the decision by the head of state to spend his holiday at his farm, rather than abroad, demonstrates responsible leadership and directly contributes to national food production.

Among those present at the meeting were father Cletus Mwiila and Father Gregory Mulobela from the catholic diocese of Monze, along with other catholic church leaders from southern province.