President Hichilema Urges Unity and Development at Malaila Traditional Ceremony
President Hakainde Hichilema has reaffirmed his Government’s commitment to inclusive development and the preservation of Zambia’s cultural heritage, as he addressed the Malaila Traditional Ceremony of the Kunda people in Mambwe District.
The President’s message was delivered by the Minister of Tourism, Honourable Rodney Sikumba, MP, who officiated at the colourful annual ceremony as Guest of Honour.
President Hichilema hailed the Malaila Ceremony as a symbol of unity, resilience, and cultural pride, paying tribute to the Kunda people’s enduring traditions. He noted that this year’s theme, “Abundance, Unity and Heritage: Celebrating Our Blessings Together,” reflected the true essence of prosperity, rooted not only in material wealth but also in values of solidarity and generosity.
“The Malaila Ceremony demonstrates the indispensable role of traditional leadership in safeguarding cultural heritage and strengthening peace and unity. As Government, we regard traditional leaders as vital partners in national development,” the President’s speech read.
Highlighting progress in Mambwe District, President Hichilema pointed to the substantial increase in the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which has risen from K1.6 million in 2021 to K36.1 million in 2025. The funding has enabled the construction of schools, health facilities, water systems and other critical infrastructure, including a new Chief’s Palace.
On social protection, the Head of State revealed that more than 168,000 people in Mambwe are benefitting from the Social Cash Transfer Programme, while over 96,000 households have received support through the Drought Response Emergency Cash Transfer. Thousands of young people have also been empowered with skills training, bursaries and grants.
President Hichilema further commended Eastern Province farmers for achieving a bumper maize harvest of over 12,000 metric tonnes, urging them to sell to the Food Reserve Agency in order to secure national food supplies.
He also reaffirmed Government’s focus on wildlife conservation and tourism, highlighting efforts to address human-wildlife conflict, including the installation of electrical game fencing around South Luangwa National Park in Kakumbi Ward.
“As a Government, we are enhancing the protection of our natural resources while ensuring that local communities share in the benefits of sustainable tourism,” he said.
Concluding his message, President Hichilema encouraged the youth of the Kunda community to embrace their roots and uphold their ancestors’ legacy with pride and dignity.
