Mutali bids farewell

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the United Nations Zambia for its partnership and support to Zambia during a period of economic and social challenges. President Hichilema has highlighted the UN’s role in supporting Zambia through difficult times since 2022, including…

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the United Nations Zambia for its partnership and support to Zambia during a period of economic and social challenges.

President Hichilema has highlighted the UN’s role in supporting Zambia through difficult times since 2022, including drought, disease burdens and the country’s debt restructuring process.

ZANIS reports that speaking during a farewell courtesy call for outgoing UN Resident Coordinator, Beatrice Mutali, at State House today, the President credited the UN team’s collaboration for Zambia’s success in debt restructuring and navigating economic pressures.

“We want to express our gratitude for the work you have done with us. The UN family supported the Zambia debt restructuring project, a difficult mission. And today we can say we are managing our debt because of the support we received,” the Head of State said.

He reflected on the UN’s founding principles, highlighting the importance of its mission of maintaining peace, security and fairness among nations, in today’s complex geopolitical climate.

President Hichilema further reaffirmed Zambia’s commitment to strengthening ties with the UN, emphasising the importance of fairness, stability and cooperation in achieving sustainable development.

He also urged Zambians to embrace the UN and its representatives as partners in national development.

And outgoing UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Beatrice Mutali, expressed confidence that President Hichilema’s renewed mandate provides an opportunity to strengthen the country’s journey towards a more prosperous, inclusive and resilient economy and democratic future.

She recalled that during her four-year tenure, Zambia faced significant challenges, including a debt crisis, a cholera outbreak and the worst drought in a century, further commending the government and Zambians at large for resilience and determination to recover.

Ms Mutali stressed the importance of preparedness in responding to crises such as climate shocks and welcomed the government’s proactive measures, including the development of a preparedness plan ahead of the anticipated El Nino.

She reaffirmed the UN’s continued support to Zambia in consolidating democratic gains and advancing sustainable development.

Ms Mutali assured of the UN’s commitment to investing in people, creating opportunities for the youth, strengthening resilience, advancing gender equality and mobilising partnerships to accelerate development.

“As Zambia enters another important period, endowed with natural resources, a youthful population, and a tradition of peace and stability, how these strengths are harnessed will shape the country’s development for many years to come”, she said.