MAYENGO NYIRENDA
Mansa
CHIEF Chisunka of Mansa District has urged Zambians to embrace President Hakainde Hichilema’s Grow Zambia Agenda, describing it as an initiative aimed at improving livelihoods and creating economic opportunities.
The traditional leader has also dismissed claims that the programme is intended to facilitate the seizure of traditional land, assuring communities that their land rights remain intact.
Speaking in Chembe on Saturday during the 20th anniversary celebration of Chief Kasoma Lwela’s reign, Chief Chisunka called on citizens to support the initiative and disregard what he described as misinformation.
“The Grow Zambia Agenda is not about politics; it is about improving lives. It is about putting food on the table, money in the pocket and creating jobs for our children,” he said.
The traditional leader said the initiative encourages communities to use their land productively rather than surrender its ownership.
He urged citizens to form cooperatives, increase agricultural production and use Constituency Development Fund (CDF) resources for irrigation and farm blocks.
Chief Chisunka also called on traditional leaders to allocate land for schools, health facilities and local industries to accelerate development.
Meanwhile, Mixed Member Proportional Representation Member of Parliament Francis Kope described traditional leaders as important partners in promoting national unity and economic development.
Mr Kope congratulated Chief Kasoma Lwela on the 20 years of leadership, saying his reign has helped preserve cultural values and maintain peace in the chiefdom.
He said the Grow Zambia Agenda requires the participation of traditional leaders and communities countrywide.
“Grow Zambia will not happen in Lusaka alone; it must take root here in Chembe, in the chiefdoms and in our villages,” Mr Kope said.
The lawmaker implored traditional authorities to work with Government by supporting cooperatives, agricultural production and establishment of infrastructure that will create employment opportunities for young people.
Mr Kope said development should transcend political differences, with a call on chiefs across the country to partner with Government in improving community livelihoods. https://enews.daily-mail.co.zm/welcome/home
