Hichilema calls for strengthened government-church collaboration

President Hakainde Hichilema has called for continued close collaboration between the Zambian government, the Catholic Church and other denominations in various areas of the economy such as education, health, among others.

Hichilema acknowledged the invaluable contributions of Catholic bishops, priests, fathers, and missionaries in the country, particularly in areas such as education, healthcare, and social welfare.

He made the appeal at State House during a courtesy call by Gian Luca Perici, the Catholic Church Apostolic Nuncio to Zambia and Malawi in Lusaka on Tuesday.

“As a government, we reaffirm our commitment to upholding the values of peace, stability, and development, ensuring better lives for all God’s people,” President Hichilema said.

He said the government’s commitment to working with the Catholic Church and other religious groups was rooted in Zambia’s identity as a Christian nation, with a diverse population that includes Muslims, Hindus, Jews, and people of other faiths.

“As Zambia celebrates 60 years of bilateral partnership with the Holy See, the government welcomes Pope Francis’s message, particularly his emphasis on debt relief and the need for economic growth and development,” he noted.

He acknowledged the Catholic Church was one of the largest Christian denominations in Zambia, with over 6 million adherents, accounting for about 36 percent of the population.

President Hichilema stated that the government shared the Pope’s vision of replacing debt with investment, promoting economic growth, and creating job opportunities for young people.

“In line with this vision, the government looks forward to continued collaboration with the Catholic Church and other stakeholders to promote education, healthcare, and economic development, ultimately improving the lives of all Zambians,” he said.

In response, Apostolic Nuncio Perici pledged the Catholic Church’s continued support to Zambia’s economic development, emphasizing the importance of continued collaboration between the Vatican and the government.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.