President Hakainde Hichilema has acknowledged that the cost of living is still challenging for many families, stating that economic stabilisation must now translate into tangible improvements in household welfare.
Speaking when he delivered his inauguration speech at National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka on on September 1, 2026, President Hichilema unveiled his “Grow Zambia” agenda, pledging to more than double the size of the economy and create more jobs and business opportunities during his second term.
“We know that for many families, the cost of living has remained challenging, and that the benefits of our stabilisation have not yet been felt at every level. We hear you,” he said.
The President, under the agenda, outlined ambitious targets of producing 10 million tonnes of maize, generating 10,000 megawatts of electricity, attracting five million tourists, and producing three million tonnes each of copper and soya.
He said Government would work with the private sector to expand mining, agriculture, tourism and energy, while accelerating infrastructure development and industrial transformation to create more opportunities for Zambians.
“Economic growth must mean something at the dinner table and the next five years should focus on ensuring that economic gains are felt by ordinary households,” said President Hichilema.
Meanwhile, he pledged increased investment in education, skills development, healthcare and economic empowerment for women and young people, while promising stronger social protection, decentralisation and the fight against corruption.
President Hichilema also called for national unity following the elections, urging Zambians not to taunt or humiliate those who voted differently and inviting political opponents to offer ideas and constructive criticism.
“The campaign is over, but the work of building Zambia continues,” he said.
By Philip Sinkala
