Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, who was reelected on August 13, began his second five-year term at a ceremony held at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka.
Chief Justice Mumba Malila joined Hichilema at the swearing-in ceremony. Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Tanzanian President Samia Suluhu Hassan, Kenyan President William Ruto, Namibian President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah and Botswana President Duma Boko also attended. Government representatives from various countries were present as well.
Grow Zambia program to be implemented
Announcing his economic goals at the start of his second term, Hichilema said they wanted to move Zambia from a period of economic stabilization into an era of growth and prosperity. He said economic growth should be felt at the table of every family.
Hichilema announced that they would implement the Grow Zambia program during the new term. The program aims to increase production and investment, particularly in agriculture, energy, mining and tourism. Through the program, Zambia’s economy is targeted to triple within five years.
Hichilema received 2,965,326 votes
Hichilema, the candidate of the ruling United Party for National Development (UPND), received 2,965,326 votes in the election. His closest rival, Brian Mundubile, received 1,856,217 votes.
Hichilema was reelected president of Zambia after securing more than 50 percent of the vote.