HH HAS SET CLEAR FIVE-YEAR PATH – KATOMBI

United Party for National Development (UPND) Serenje Constituency Member of Parliament, Bishop Friday Katombi, has commended President Hakainde Hichilema for establishing a distinct and ambitious five-year national development trajectory. In a comprehensive media statement released following the official opening of the First Session of the Fourteenth National Assembly, Dr Katombi asserted that the presidential address laid out a practical framework aimed at achieving sustainable, inclusive growth across all sectors of the Zambian economy. Dr Katombi emphasized that the administration's strategic focus, encapsulated within the broader national development agenda, builds upon fundamental economic corrections achieved during the government's initial term. He pointed to the palpable restoration of macroeconomic stability, noting the reduction in inflation and the relative strengthening of the Kwacha as definitive proof of prudent fiscal management. Furthermore, he highlighted the resilience shown in the agricultural sector, referencing robust maize production figures that underline the government's commitment to national food security amidst regional climatic pressures. Addressing social sector advancements, the Serenje lawmaker drew attention to the profound impact of decentralization and expanded public service recruitment. He noted that the unprecedented recruitment of tens of thousands of teachers and health workers nationwide has significantly improved grassroots access to vital public services. Moreover, Dr Katombi lauded the exponential scaling of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), arguing that the enhanced financial devolution from central government has empowered local communities to direct their own developmental destinies by prioritizing infrastructure projects tailored to rural and urban needs alike. Looking forward, the legislator underscored the importance of harnessing emerging economic drivers, including digitalization, renewable energy transiti