President Hakainde Hichilema addressed National Assembly on applying national values and principles

President Hakainde Hichilema today addressed the National Assembly right here in Lusaka, reporting on progress made in promoting and applying Zambia's national values and principles in accordance with Article 9, Clause 2 of the Constitution. The address reviewed how governance reforms, economic recovery, social programs, regional cooperation, and resource management are translating constitutional values—morality and ethics, patriotism and national unity, democracy and constitutionalism, human dignity, equity, social justice and non-discrimination, good governance, integrity and transparency, and sustainable development—into measurable national progress. We've implemented a number of interventions. These include very important free education, keeping children longer in school, very important skills training, empowerment initiatives, and nationwide sensitization programs for community members, workers, as well as civic and traditional leaders.

Economic recovery and fiscal stability. The President reported that Zambia successfully completed the IMF Extended Credit Facility program and emerged from debt default, restoring credibility and investor confidence. Economic growth reached 5.8% in 2025, while inflation has declined into single digits—9.4% in January 2026—reflecting sustained macroeconomic stability.

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Domestic resource mobilization has strengthened fiscal independence. Zambia Revenue Authority collections reached 160 billion Kwacha in 2025, while domestic revenues are financing 81.6% of the 2026 national budget, reducing reliance on foreign aid. Mining reforms and national benefit from resources. The President said government is strengthening regulations of the mining sector to ensure legal, safe, and transparent operations while increasing national benefit. Copper production reached 890,346 tons in 2025, with targets of 1 million tons in 2026 and 3 million tons in the medium term. Safe mining is a moral and ethical imperative. Government will not preside over a country destabilized by insecurity or loss of life arising from illegal mining activities. Reforms, including enhanced licensing, track-and-trace systems, and partnerships to cover illicit flows, aim to protect lives, prevent violence, maintain peace, and ensure treasure revenues support public services rather than fuel lawlessness.

Energy security and economic resilience. Government continues to diversify energy sources to reduce dependence on hydropower and support economic growth.