Hichilema urges church institutions to drive mindset change towards hard work

President Hakainde Hichilema has urged the church to play a leading role in encouraging a culture of hard work among Zambians as the government embarks on its mission to remodel the nation’s economy.

He stated that citizens’ dedication and effort would be essential in driving the economic transformation agenda.

Speaking on Thursday during the unveiling of the Pentecostal Assemblies of God of Zambia (PAOGZ) 2024-2029 Strategic Plan and the Trans-Africa Christian University (TACU) Remodeling Project in Kitwe, President Hichilema stressed the need for greater involvement from the church in promoting a shift in mindset towards hard work and productivity.

“As we remodel the economy, we count on the church to drive the culture of hard work,” Hichilema stated.

He noted that the church’s influence can help create a productive society that aligned with the government’s development goals.

The president is on a two-day working visit to the Copperbelt Province, where he is set to officiate the National Day of Prayer, Fasting, and Repentance at Nkana Stadium in Kitwe on Friday.

During his remarks, Hichilema called on the private sector to assist the PAOGZ in raising the US$2.5 million required to fund the initiatives outlined in their strategic plan.

The funds would go towards key projects in the education and social sectors, with a significant portion allocated to expanding infrastructure at the PAOGZ Bible College.

The president also encouraged the church to utilise the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) to support skills training programmes, urging PAOGZ to diversify its educational offerings as it remodels its training programmes.

“The church should make use of the CDF to support skills training, and as you remodel your training programmes, consider incorporating diverse courses that address current needs,” Hichilema advised.

PAOGZ Presiding Bishop, Joshua Banda, described the launch of the strategic plan as critical to improving the education sector in Zambia.

He highlighted that, once implemented, the plan would enhance the church’s infrastructure, including the construction of hotels, health centers and other development projects.

“Implementing the strategic plan will allow us to improve key facilities, including the construction of hotels and health centers, among other programmes lined up,” said Bishop Banda.

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