President Hichilema Salutes Luchazi Culture, Pledges Roads, Schools, and Energy
President Hakainde Hichilema has reiterated his administration’s commitment to delivering development fairly across all regions of Zambia while celebrating the power of culture to unite communities. His message was delivered by Minister of Energy, Mr. Makozo Chikote, during the Chivweka Traditional Ceremony of His Royal Highness Chief Kalunga of the Luchazi people in Kabompo District.
The Chivweka Ceremony, which honours the Luchazi people’s traditional fire-making skills, brought together over eight chiefs from across North-Western Province. It highlighted the community’s resilience, cultural pride, and enduring unity.
In his remarks, Mr. Chikote commended the Luchazi people for their role in preserving Zambia’s cultural identity and maintaining peace.
“Your customs are not only a celebration of history but a strong pillar of our national unity,” he said.
The Chivweka Royal Establishment used the occasion to voice development priorities, including better road infrastructure, electricity, a secondary school, a hospital, and a police station. The chiefdom also reaffirmed its support for the New Dawn Government, particularly for its continued investment in agriculture.
President Hichilema, through his representative, assured the community that no part of the country would be left behind.
“We are delivering development to every region without favour,” Mr. Chikote said. “But we must work together. Avoid internal conflicts and protect farmers from exploitative buyers.”
He encouraged farmers to sell their maize to the Food Reserve Agency (FRA) and keep enough for family consumption. He further announced that distribution of farming inputs for the 2025–2026 season would begin soon to ensure timely preparations.
Highlighting ongoing development in Kabompo, Mr. Chikote said the increased Constituency Development Fund (CDF), now at K36.1 million, was already transforming the district. Funded projects include new classroom blocks, teacher houses, road upgrades, boreholes, a police post in Mumbeji, and the construction of Chief Kalunga’s new palace, which he toured and directed to be completed before the rains.
In support of the ceremony, President Hichilema donated five cows and 100 bags of mealie meal, a gesture warmly appreciated by the Luchazi community.
The President also urged traditional leaders to help manage the discovery of valuable minerals such as gold in a transparent and equitable way to ensure local communities benefit sustainably.
Speaking on behalf of the Luchazi people, Mr. Janas Lumbala, Chairperson of the Chivweka Culture Association, appealed for stronger government support to meet the chiefdom’s pressing development needs.
President Hichilema concluded his message with congratulations to Chief Kalunga and the Luchazi people for keeping their cultural flame alive, encouraging unity, peace, and collaboration to build a better future for all.
