Western Chamber of Commerce Congratulates President Hichilema on re-election

The Western Province Chamber of Commerce has congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election, describing the development as a renewed opportunity to accelerate economic transformation and development in the province. Speaking in an interview with journalists in…

The Western Province Chamber of Commerce has congratulated President Hakainde Hichilema on his re-election, describing the development as a renewed opportunity to accelerate economic transformation and development in the province.

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Mongu, Western Province Chamber of Commerce Secretary, Samuel Litebele said the President’s re-election has brought renewed hope among the business community and residents of Western Province.

 Mr Litebele said the Chamber is optimistic that the second term will provide an opportunity for the Government to consolidate ongoing development programmes and introduce further interventions aimed at stimulating economic growth and improving livelihoods.

He has since appealed to President Hichilema to prioritise the rehabilitation of the Mongu/Lusaka and Sesheke/Livingstone roads, which he said are critical to enhancing connectivity, facilitating trade and opening up the province to greater investment.

Mr Litebele said improved road infrastructure would help reduce the cost of transporting goods and services while creating better opportunities for farmers, traders and other businesses to access markets both within and outside the province.

He further said Western Province has enormous untapped agricultural potential, particularly in the production of rice and cashew nuts, which could significantly contribute to economic growth and improve the livelihoods of local communities.

Mr Litebele has therefore called for increased investment in agriculture, value addition and market linkages to enable farmers to fully exploit the province’s agricultural potential.

He said the Chamber of Commerce remains committed to working with Government and other stakeholders in promoting a conducive business environment that can attract investment, create employment opportunities and contribute to sustainable economic development in Western Province.