Vice-President Mutale Nalumango has urged Zambians to safeguard the country’s peace and unity, describing them as the nation’s greatest assets.
Mrs Nalumango says peace and unity were essential for Zambia’s continued social and economic development and should be preserved under the national motto, One Zambia, One Nation.
She was speaking last evening when she led the ‘symbolic’ midnight flag-hoisting ceremony held at the Lusaka Showgrounds to mark the country’s 62nd Independence anniversary.
The ceremony, attended by government officials, traditional leaders, diplomats, deputy defence service chiefs and hundreds of Lusaka residents, commemorated Zambia’s historic transition to independence on October 24, 1964.
Mrs Nalumango said the midnight flag-hoisting tradition was an important national event that brought Zambians together regardless of their backgrounds, beliefs, religion or affiliations.
She called on citizens to honour the sacrifices of freedom fighters by actively participating in the country’s social and economic development.
Mrs Nalumango said this year’s theme, “Zambia at 62: Our Journey, Our Growth, Our Future,” provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the country’s achievements, acknowledge challenges and renew their commitment to building a prosperous nation for present and future generations.
She said the New Dawn administration, under President Hakainde Hichilema, had embarked on rebuilding the country through expanded access to free education, improved health services, infrastructure development, increased economic activity and opportunities across various sectors.
She said progress had been recorded in agriculture, mining, manufacturing, tourism, energy, information and communication technology, among other sectors.
She urged citizens to build on the achievements made so far and contribute to shaping a stronger and more prosperous Zambia.
And speaking at the same occasion, Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary (PS) Maambo Hamaundu said the freedom secured by Zambia’s forefathers should never be taken for granted.
Mr Hamaundu commended men and women in uniform for their continued role in safeguarding the country’s peace, security and stability.
He said peace and security were essential for national order and economic and social development.
The PS urged Zambians to reflect on their individual responsibilities in shaping the country’s future, saying every citizen had a role to play in sustaining the gains of independence.
Meanwhile, 2026 Independence Defense Ceremony Organising Committee Chairperson, Likando Muyunda said the midnight flag-hoisting ceremony was intended to remind citizens of the historic events of the night of October 23 to 24, 1964.
Brigadier General Muyunda thanked the organising Committee and all stakeholders who contributed to the successful hosting of the event.
He said the ceremony is an important expression of patriotism and a reminder of the country’s journey, growth and aspirations for the future.
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