President Hichilema Urges National Unity at Samu Lya Moomba

President Hakainde Hichilema has called on Zambians to safeguard peace, stressing that stability is the foundation for national progress.

Speaking at the historic Samu Lya Moomba Ceremony in Monze District of Southern Province today, the Head of State thanked citizens for entrusting the United Party for National Development (UPND) with leadership. “This call is for service to the people of Zambia first,” he said, urging elected officials to prioritise public service over personal gain.

The President reminded those who did not secure parliamentary or council seats that their interests would still be represented. “There is always going to be one winner, but when we win, we represent everyone. Please know that you are not a loser,” he declared.

President Hichilema further underscored the importance of peace and security, warning that government would not allow the country to be destabilised. He urged citizens to remain law‑abiding, noting that every Zambian has a role to play in national development.

Reflecting on the cultural significance of the ceremony, he said Samu Lya Moomba was critical in the preparation for independence but had long been overlooked. He paid tribute to traditional leaders, including Chief Choongo, for their role in the liberation struggle. “We must emulate those who sacrificed for our freedom by working hard and smart to deliver accelerated development,” he said.

The Samu Lya Moomba Traditional Ceremony is an annual cultural event celebrated by the Tonga‑ and Ila‑speaking people in Chief Choongo’s chiefdom. The site is tied to Zambia’s independence struggle, where freedom fighters and nationalist leaders gathered under the historic Samu Lya Moomba tree to strategise, while community members donated cattle and funds to support their travel.

Turning to economic priorities, the President highlighted agriculture as a cornerstone of the Grow Zambia agenda. He directed the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) to clear all outstanding payments and urged citizens to preserve their maize stocks. “Please inform people to preserve as much maize as possible because we have an impending drought,” he said.

Chief Choongo’s representative, Charles Nakooze, underscored the national significance of the Samu Lya Moomba Ceremony, describing it as a heritage site that contributed directly to Zambia’s independence struggle. “People came from various regions with one common purpose: victory in the struggle, and this ceremony cemented that unity,” he said.

Mr. Nakooze noted that the people of Monze district appreciate President Hichilema’s efforts in job creation, aligning with the broader Grow Zambia agenda. He emphasised that the theme of the ceremony, ‘promoting national growth through love, peace and value addition to local resources’ reflects the need to harness productivity and drive economic expansion.

“We thank you for acknowledging Samu Lya Moomba as a national heritage site. This recognition confirms that the history here is part of Zambia’s collective story, not confined to one region,” he added.