By LT

Copperbelt Province Permanent Secretary, Lawrence Mwanza, has reaffirmed Government’s commitment to working closely with traditional leaders in advancing rural development and preserving Zambia’s cultural heritage.

‎Speaking during the 7th Katanino Traditional Ceremony of the Lamba people of His Royal Highness Chief Nkambo in Masaiti District, Mr Mwanza said traditional ceremonies remain important platforms for promoting unity, peace and cultural identity.

‎He said such ceremonies provide an opportunity for communities to preserve their customs, values and history by passing them on to future generations. ‎Mr Mwanza said the Government, under President Hakainde Hichilema, recognizes the critical role played by traditional leaders in promoting peace, unity and development across the country.

‎The Permanent Secretary said Zambia has continued to enjoy peace because of its commitment to respecting cultural diversity under the national motto, One Zambia, One Nation.

‎Mr Mwanza further said the Government remains committed to improving people’s living standards through continued investments in education, healthcare, clean water, infrastructure and other essential public services.

‎He noted that several development interventions have been implemented in Nkambo Chiefdom and the wider Masaiti District, including infrastructure development, the rehabilitation of public facilities, and the drilling and rehabilitation of boreholes to improve access to safe drinking water.

‎Mr Mwanza also acknowledged the contribution of the private sector, cooperating partners and other stakeholders in complementing the Government’s efforts to improve the welfare of communities.

‎The Permanent Secretary said the Government will continue supporting farmers through the Farmer Input Support Programme (FISP), agricultural mechanisation and strengthened extension services to enhance food security and increase agricultural productivity.

‎He encouraged cooperatives in the area to venture into livestock production, dairy farming and other value-addition enterprises to improve household incomes.

‎Mr Mwanza also urged the Masaiti Town Council to prioritize the maintenance of feeder roads before the onset of the rainy season to improve access to markets and public services.

He added that resources available under the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) and other Government programmes should continue to be utilised effectively to address the development needs of communities.

‎The Permanent Secretary commended His Royal Highness Chief Nkambo, the organizing committee, sponsors and all stakeholders for successfully hosting this year’s Katanino Traditional Ceremony and for their continued efforts in preserving the cultural heritage of the Lamba people.

‎Speaking at the same event, Chief Nkambo IV said chiefs across the country are now more united because of the Government’s efforts to foster peace and unity. ‎

‎Chief Nkambo said President Hakainde Hichilema’s agenda of promoting peace and national unity has greatly contributed to this achievement and called on all Zambians to embrace the same spirit.

‎Meanwhile, House of Chiefs Chairperson, Chief Bunda Bunda, stressed the importance of involving young people in preserving Zambia’s cultural heritage and traditions