President Hakainde Hichilema has urged Zambians to be patient and discerning in their choice of leaders, warning that hasty decisions could lead to undesirable outcomes. Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony for a new 300 Mega Watts Thermal Power Plant in Mamba District, Southern Province, Hichilema emphasized the importance of careful and informed decision-making in leadership.
The President highlighted the ongoing drought, which has reduced the country’s hydropower capacity by approximately 80%, making the new thermal power plant a critical development for addressing Zambia’s energy deficit. The project, undertaken by Maamba Energy, represents a significant step forward, with a 20-year power purchase agreement signed between Zesco and Maamba Energy.
Hichilema stressed that the construction of such infrastructure requires time and patience. He urged Zambians to support and wait for positive outcomes rather than rushing decisions that might result in poor leadership choices. The metaphorical warning against “choosing hyenas” reflects his concern that poor leadership could have detrimental effects on the nation.
The President also praised his administration’s efforts to revive Zambia’s mining sector, which had been plagued by litigation and economic challenges. He mentioned several key developments:
- Mopani Copper Mines: Once struggling, now operational again.
- CNMC (China Nonferrous Metal Mining Company): Reopened after 23 years.
- Konkola Copper Mines (KCM): Revitalized despite previous difficulties.
Hichilema highlighted the administration’s successes in improving the mining sector and bringing various projects back on track. He contrasted these achievements with a call for continued diligence and effective governance to drive the country’s progress.
The President also addressed the importance of local involvement in the new power plant project. He urged Sinazongwe residents to support the initiative, emphasizing that it should benefit the local community through job creation and skills development. Hichilema expressed a commitment to ensuring that local workers are prioritized and trained, and he called for collaboration among all stakeholders to complete the project efficiently.
In summary, President Hichilema’s speech focused on the need for patience and careful leadership selection, the benefits of the new power plant project for Zambia’s energy needs, and the importance of local engagement and skills development in the implementation of national projects.
