Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema (front) attends a ceremony marking the 58th Independence Day anniversary in Lusaka, Zambia, Oct. 24, 2022. Zambia on Monday marked the 58th anniversary of its independence from British colonial rule with commemorative events in various parts of the country. (Photo by Martin Mbangweta/Xinhua)
LUSAKA, Oct. 24 (Xinhua) -- Zambia on Monday marked the 58th anniversary of its independence from British colonial rule with commemorative events in various parts of the country.
President Hakainde Hichilema called on citizens to safeguard the peace which was attained with great sacrifice by the freedom fighters.
The theme for this year's commemoration is, "Promoting Inclusiveness towards a Sustainable Social and Economic Recovery".
The main event in Lusaka, the country's capital, saw the Zambian president leading dignitaries, including Namibian President Hage Geingob, the guest of honor, in laying wreaths at the Freedom Statue in commemoration of people who died during the struggle for independence.
The ceremony was characterized by solemn music by the army while scores of people watched as the dignitaries laid wreaths.
The two leaders later went to the Embassy Park, a burial place for the country's presidents, where they laid wreaths.
The event later moved to the State House for a national honors and awards investiture ceremony where people were awarded medals in recognition of their contribution in various sectors to the country's development.
In his address on the eve of independence, the Zambian president called on citizens to remember the sacrifice the forefathers made during the struggle for independence.
He said the freedom fighters laid a foundation for the country, adding that the peace currently being enjoyed should not be taken for granted because people sacrificed their lives.
According to him, the country was now anchored on the rule of law and the respect for fundamental freedoms because of the firm foundation laid by freedom fighters.
The government, he said, was committed to continuing to provide a conducive social and economic environment in order to improve people's living standards.
He further said the theme resonates well with the government's vision of having a united nation and prosperity for all. ■
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema (C) attends a ceremony marking the 58th Independence Day anniversary in Lusaka, Zambia, Oct. 24, 2022. Zambia on Monday marked the 58th anniversary of its independence from British colonial rule with commemorative events in various parts of the country. (Photo by Martin Mbangweta/Xinhua)
