Mutali bids farewell

President Hakainde Hichilema has praised the United Nations system in Zambia for its steadfast partnership and multifaceted support during a crucial period marked by severe economic and social challenges. Speaking at State House when outgoing UN Resident Coordinator Beatrice Mutali paid a farewell courtesy call, President Hichilema lauded the organization's role in standing with Zambia through unprecedented national crises, including devastating droughts, a severe cholera outbreak, and complex external debt restructuring negotiations. The Head of State emphasized that the United Nations remains a trusted ally and vital development partner as the country implements home-grown economic recovery plans and institutional reforms. He noted that multilateral cooperation has been instrumental in cushioning vulnerable populations, reinforcing social protection programs, and advancing the national development agenda. President Hichilema also acknowledged the UN's technical assistance in bolstering governance, upholding human rights, and fostering an environment conducive to sustainable economic growth and regional trade integration within Africa. In her remarks, Ms. Mutali expressed profound gratitude for the opportunity to serve in Zambia, highlighting her deep admiration for the resilience demonstrated by the Zambian people. She commended the New Dawn administration's decisive steps toward macro-economic stability, institutional strengthening, and human capital development, particularly in areas spanning education, agriculture, youth empowerment, and gender equality. Ms. Mutali remarked that navigating the turbulent waters of debt restructuring while simultaneously confronting climate-induced shocks was a testament to robust leadership and civic endurance. The departure of the UN Resident Coordinator marks the conclusion of a significant chapter of international cooperation that saw landmark milestones, including collaboration on humanitarian response frameworks and str