Strengthen Public Communication, Kangwa Tells PR Officers
Secretary to the Cabinet, Mr Patrick Kangwa, has directed Principal Public Relations Officers (PPROs) to intensify government communication and ensure that citizens are consistently informed about development programmes taking place across the country.
Speaking during a strategic engagement at Ciêla Resort in Chongwe on 10 December 2025, Mr Kangwa said strengthened communication structures must translate into clearer, more proactive dissemination of information at ministerial and provincial levels.
He urged PPROs to “reciprocate the government’s confidence” by ensuring that communities understand how policies, reforms and projects are improving their lives.
He cautioned that while notable progress is being made across sectors, these achievements risk going unnoticed if communication remains passive or inconsistent.
Mr Kangwa also reiterated President Hakainde Hichilema’s call for PPROs to support the fight against corruption by promoting transparency and accountability.
Head of the Presidential Delivery Unit (PDU), Ms Kusobile Kamwambi, echoed these sentiments, emphasising the importance of factual, verified and timely information.
She warned that misinformation continues to distort public understanding and urged officers to strengthen their role as a reliable link between government actions and the public.
She added that timely responses to citizen feedback are essential for improving participation in national development.
Ministry of Information and Media Permanent Secretary, Mr Thabo Kawana, commended the officers for their efforts in 2025 and encouraged them to approach 2026 with renewed professionalism, discipline and innovation.
He noted that the expectations of Zambians remain high and that coordinated communication is vital in building trust and countering misinformation.
State House Chief Communications Strategist, Mr Whitney Mulobela, stressed the need for harmonised messaging across government platforms for greater impact.
Speaking on behalf of the PPROs, Ms Eve Nankala thanked government and President Hichilema for the trust placed in the team and reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening engagement with citizens.
She noted that utilising both digital and traditional media will be key in amplifying accurate information and combating misleading narratives.
The meeting also reviewed the performance of PPROs in 2025 and outlined strategic priorities for improving government communication in 2026.