PRESIDENT Hakainde Hichilema today marks four years since he was sworn in as Zambia’s seventh Republican President taking over from his predecessor the late former president Edgar Lungu.
It was on August 24, 2021 when Heroes Stadium erupted in celebration as President Hichilema, then President-elect took the oath of office after a landslide victory.
Four years later, State House said the UPND government has delivered significant change in the economy, education, agriculture and governance.
According to Chief Communication Specialist Clayson Hamasaka, Zambia has emerged as one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa with growth projected at more than 6 percent this year.
The government attributes this to a historic debt restructuring deal, renewed investor confidence and over $12 billion in actualised investments across sectors such as agriculture, mining and energy.
On the social front, the UPND points to the restoration of free education from primary to secondary level, the recruitment of 41,000 teachers and a record of bumper maize harvest in recent history that has bolstered food security.
Communities have also seen a dramatic rise in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) from K1.6 million to K36.1 million, which government said has given people the power to drive development in their own localities.
The administration also seen a change in the political climate, saying freedoms of expression and association have been restored, with Zambians now able to debate and participate in national issues without fear of political cadres.
Reflecting on the milestone, President Hichilema described the last four years as laying the foundation for long-term prosperity.
“In four years we have laid the foundation for growth and opportunity, but this is only the beginning. We must now build further, so that every citizen feels the benefits of this progress in their daily lives. Together, let’s deliver Zambia’s harvest,” President Hichilema said.
By George Musonda
Kalemba August 24, 2025
