During a significant visit to St. Joseph Parish of Chifubu, Ndola district, President Hakainde Hichilema addressed congregants and lauded the Catholic Church for its profound and longstanding contributions to Zambia's educational and social development.

The President, who was on a one-day visit to the Copperbelt Province, expressed the government's deep gratitude for the Church's impactful role in various sectors.

President Hichilema specifically highlighted the Catholic Church's extensive assistance to communities through evangelical work, providing crucial support to the vulnerable in society, enhancing the education sector, and delivering standard health services.

He affirmed that the quality health services offered by the Church serve as a substantial boost to the government's ongoing efforts to provide accessible and quality healthcare to all citizens. The Head of State reiterated that the Catholic Church runs some of Zambia’s oldest and most respected mission schools, a legacy that continues to significantly strengthen the nation’s education system.

Emphasizing the importance of unity, Mr. Hichilema called for a strong partnership between the Church and the government.

He stated that robust bonds between these two entities invariably lead to greater national development, as both Church Priests and those serving under the government originate from and serve the same communities.

Furthermore, the President commended the St. Joseph Parish for their commendable agriculture project, which involves developing a farm. As a dedicated farmer himself, President Hichilema pledged his personal assistance to help the Church further develop this initiative.

During the Mass, Fr. Lewis Mutachila, Vicar General of the Ndola Archdiocese, delivered a poignant homily centered on spiritual renewal.

Fr. Mutachila urged Christians to seek true fulfillment in Christ rather than in worldly pursuits, proclaiming that "Things of this world will never fully satisfy anyone, but Christ will, because He is the Bread of Life."

He encouraged the faithful to embrace the Lenten season as a dedicated time for repentance and fostering a deeper connection with God, stressing the need for "complete surrendering to God, regardless of what you have done or where you have been," reminding all believers of their identity as deeply loved children of God.

Following his engagement at the parish, President Hichilema was later expected to address students at Arthur Davies Stadium, where discussions were anticipated to cover crucial topics such as youth development and education reforms.