16/09/2025
CARITAS ZAMBIA RESPONDS TO PRESIDENT'S NATIONAL ADDRESS: DURING THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE FIFTH SESSION OF THE THIRTEENTH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY ON FRIDAY, 12TH SEPTEMBER, 2025.
By Chibesa Ngwira
Caritas Zambia has issued a response to President Hakainde Hichilema’s address to the nation, delivered during the official opening of the Fifth Session of the Thirteenth National Assembly on Friday, September 12, 2025. While acknowledging the government’s progress on several fronts, the Catholic-led social justice organization raised serious concerns over the lack of clarity and urgency in addressing Zambia’s ongoing challenges.
In a statement released on Monday 15th September 2025, by Caritas Zambia executive director Fr. Dr. Gabriel Mapulanga commended the President for outlining the strides made in Zambia’s economic and social transformation over the past four years. Fr. Mapulanga highlighted positive developments such as the restoration of economic growth, renewed investor confidence, and the reinforcement of the rule of law.
“These are significant achievements that reflect the efforts of the government and its commitment to national development,” he said.
However, Fr. Mapulanga expressed disappointment over what he described as the President’s “brevity and vagueness” on pressing issues currently affecting ordinary Zambians. One of the key concerns raised was the persistent load shedding, which continues to disrupt lives and economic activity despite recent rainfall and the improved water levels at Kariba Dam.
“The President’s expression of regret over the situation is appreciated, but concrete plans and timelines for addressing this issue are essential for restoring public confidence,” Fr. Mapulanga stated.
The organization also turned its attention to the rising cost of living and the growing unemployment crisis, particularly among Zambia’s youth. With over 100,000 young people graduating from educational institutions annually and only 2,000 to 20,000 securing formal employment each year, Fr. Gabriel warned that the country’s economic gains risk becoming meaningless for the majority of citizens.
“This reality underscores the need for a robust job creation strategy. Without meaningful employment, the economic progress highlighted by the President will not translate into improved livelihoods,” he emphasized.
Fr. Gabriel concluded his remarks by urging the government to present clear, actionable strategies with defined timelines, for tackling these urgent issues. He stressed that the lack of specific solutions leaves many questions unanswered and undermines the credibility of the President’s otherwise optimistic outlook.
“We look forward to seeing more focused efforts in the coming days to address these critical issues,” he added. “The nation remains hopeful for tangible improvements in the areas that directly impact the quality of life for all Zambians.”
The President’s address, which marked the final session of the current Parliament before next year’s general elections, was widely viewed as a key opportunity to outline the government's development agenda and reassure the public amid growing economic pressures.
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