Eastern Province Permanent Secretary Paul Thole has called on Zambians to reject tribalism and politics of hate and safeguard national unity and peace as the country celebrates 62 years of independence.
Mr Thole said Zambia’s future depended on citizens embracing diversity, protecting the peace secured by freedom fighters and making choices that promote national development.
He was speaking during the hosting of the national flag at the 1940 Building in Chipata ahead of the country’s 62nd Independence anniversary.
Mr Thole said the Independence Day theme, “Zambia at 62: Our Journey, Our Growth, Our Future,” reminded citizens that the country’s progress depended on the choices they made today.
He urged Zambians to honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters by preserving the peace and freedom they secured for future generations.
Mr Thole also commended the people of Chipata for demonstrating tolerance, saying leadership should be based on merit rather than a person’s tribe, colour or religion.
He said the government, under President Hakainde Hichilema, was pursuing the Grow Zambia agenda to move the country from economic stability towards production-led economic growth.
Mr Thole said Eastern Province was contributing to the country’s food security, with the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) purchasing 264,000 metric tonnes of maize this year, compared with approximately 130,000 metric tonnes in the previous year.
He said the increase demonstrated the region’s growing production capacity and its potential to support neighbouring countries, including Malawi.
Mr Thole urged citizens to understand and work towards the country’s development targets in agriculture, mining, energy and tourism.
And Chipata District Commissioner, Elidah Banda paid tribute to freedom fighters for their sacrifices in securing Zambia’s independence.
Ms Banda said the national flag was not merely a piece of cloth but a symbol of freedom, unity, peace and national identity.
She urged citizens to reflect on the country’s journey to independence and uphold the values represented by the national flag.
Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of freedom fighters in Eastern Province, Thomas Majula called on young people to recognise the contribution of women to Zambia’s liberation struggle.
Mr Majula cited Julia Mulega, a marketeer in Lusaka who was known for mobilising women and participating in demonstrations during the colonial period.
He said her courage and determination demonstrated the important role women played in supporting the struggle for independence.
Mr Majula urged young people to appreciate and support women, saying their contribution to society should never be overlooked.
“Look after the women. They will look after you,” he said.
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