. Sata

By CATHERINE NYIRENDA? –
THE primary task for Zambia is the transformation of the country through sustained economic growth, President Micahel Sata has said.
President Sata said the country has a duty to uphold democracy through good governance, transparency, accountability and observance of human rights.
The President said this in his message to the nation on Zambia’s 50th Independence anniversary.
“We also have a duty to generate wealth whose benefits include the distribution of incomes through employment and taxes to the Government,” President Sata said.
He emphasised the need to increase opportunities for economic activity and investment in order to reduce poverty.
“Let us, therefore, mobilise in one great cooperative national effort the enormous energy of our society in order to overcome and eliminate poverty,” Mr Sata said.
Mr Sata thanked the heads of State and governments, heads of international organisations and other well-wishers for the messages of goodwill and solidarity on Zambia’s attainment of 50 years of independence.
“Our freedom fighters, driven by patriotism, loyalty and love, put aside the instinct for self-preservation and risked their lives and those of their families,” Mr Sata said.
He commended Zambians for commemorating this historic achievement with dignity, joy, peace and unity.
Although the country still had some challenges to overcome in the quest to deliver higher levels of prosperity, the President said there was a determination to face the future with heightened energy and enthusiasm to consolidate political, economic and social progress.