Zambia’s President Hakainde Hichilema praises the partnership with the Catholic Church, emphasizing collaboration over competition during a recent anniversary celebration. He assures the Church of the government’s support in their shared mission of development.
On March 16, 2025, during the 120th anniversary of the Chikuni Catholic Mission, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema highlighted the importance of collaboration between the Catholic Church and his administration. He remarked that both entities should view themselves as partners rather than competitors, reinforcing their joint efforts towards societal development.
President Hichilema stated, “The Catholic Church and the government are development partners, we are not competitors. Continue with your missionary work, educational work, health service provision, and we will do our part as government.” He emphasized the need to strengthen their longstanding partnership, which he believes is unbreakable and essential for mutual success.
In response to concerns raised by the Auxiliary Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Chipata regarding uneven development across Zambia, President Hichilema reaffirmed the government’s commitment to support the Church’s efforts. He conveyed, “It is important that we advance the sense of partnership, which has endured many years and no one will break our partnership; the Catholic Church and the government will always be one.”
In summary, President Hakainde Hichilema of Zambia has reaffirmed the collaborative relationship between his government and the Catholic Church, underscoring their shared commitment to socio-economic development. His remarks emphasize the importance of partnership, as both institutions seek to address the country’s development challenges together without competition.
Original Source: www.aciafrica.org
