HH winds up Western Province tour

HH campaigning in Mwandi district of Western Province

UPND presidential candidate Hakainde Hichilema has concluded his campaign tour of Western Province, having held successful rallies in Mongu, Mangango, Kaoma, Sesheke, Shangombo, Senanga, Nalolo, Nalikwanda, Sikongo and Kalabo and Liuwa.

Hichilema, who was accompanied by ADD President Charles Milupi on the tour, says he is humbled by the warm welcome he and his team received in the province.

In a statement, the UPND leader explained that during his time in Western Province he focused many of his discussions on the challenges and missed opportunities that exist in the agriculture sector today, which have seen farmers struggling when they should in fact be thriving.

He cited the opportunity to grow rice in the plains throughout the year is clear as an example, saying if it is well planned for and invest in, Zambia could produce as much rice as it produce maize. He noted that with a ready market in the COMESA region, the industry can create jobs, help lower food prices and earn valuable foreign exchange that will strengthen the kwacha after a turbulent period.

“We share in the frustration of our people in Western Province, and indeed across the country, that the price of fertiliser has doubled under PF from K150 to K300. This price must be brought down as a matter of urgent priority for the incoming government in August. Do not let PF fool you that they care about agriculture. Under their government the share of the national budget spent on the sector has fallen to a low of 3.2%,” Hichilema said.

He added: “The message was clear: we have a vision for this country. Our vision is of a united, prosperous and equitable Zambia. Under my leadership delivery of the UPND 10 Point Plan will ensure that every child has the opportunity to go to school regardless of their gender or the wealth of their parents, and every adult will have the opportunity to earn a good salary through productive means.”