Zambia’s president delivers his oath of office during his inauguration ceremony, holding a Bible as he addresses the gathering. Photo: BBC News /NNA News

NNA News - Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema has begun his second five-year term in office, pledging to shift the country’s focus from economic stabilisation to growth, job creation and improved household welfare.

Hichilema and Vice President Mutale Nalumango were sworn in on Tuesday at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka, following Hichilema’s re-election in the August 13th presidential election.

In his inaugural address, Hichilema thanked Zambians for entrusting his administration with another mandate and called for unity following the election. “To those who voted for us, we thank you for your trust and confidence. To those who did not vote for us, we respect your democratic choice,” he said. “We will serve you on an equal basis, without discrimination, because you are our fellow citizens and an equal part of this great Republic.”

Hichilema said his administration’s priorities would change during the second term, with greater emphasis on economic expansion and the benefits reaching ordinary citizens. “Our first term was about restoring stability and laying the foundation. The next chapter is about growing our economy, creating jobs and opportunities, strengthening our communities and ensuring that progress reaches every household,” he said.

The president also called on Zambians to play a greater role in expanding domestic production and reducing dependence on imports. “We must work hard and smart, produce more of what we consume, grow what we export, support enterprise and investment, and build a culture of productivity and self-reliance,” Hichilema said. “Zambia must increasingly stand on the strength of its own people and resources.”

His remarks point to a second-term economic agenda centred on production, exports, investment and job creation, following the government's focus during his first term on economic stabilisation and debt restructuring. Speaking at the inauguration luncheon in Lusaka, Vice President Nalumango delivered remarks on Hichilema’s behalf, in which the president said the government intended to pursue more inclusive economic development.

Hichilema said Zambia was moving “from stability to prosperity and growth” and reiterated an ambition to more than double the size of the economy. He also said the benefits of economic growth needed to reach citizens regardless of their political or social standing. The president further sought to reassure international partners about Zambia’s economic and diplomatic direction.“To our friends and partners across the world, Zambia remains a peaceful, democratic and sovereign nation. A reliable partner committed to stability, trade and investment,” he said.

The second inauguration follows a closely contested political period surrounding the August election. Hichilema was declared the winner with about 60 per cent of the vote, while his principal challenger Brian Mundubile rejected the result and alleged irregularities. Mundubile and his running mate, Makebi Zulu, were subsequently detained on treason-related allegations.

Zambia’s president takes the oath of office during an inauguration ceremony at a packed stadium, with a judicial official standing nearby. Photo: BBC News/ NNA News

Against that backdrop, Hichilema's emphasis on reconciliation featured prominently in his inaugural message. “Our political choices may differ, but our country and our destiny are one. The elections are behind us; the work of building Zambia continues,” he said. He ended his address with a pledge to remain focused on service delivery.“To every Zambian, our pledge is simple. We will serve you. We will listen. We will work. And we will remain focused on delivering a more prosperous, united and resilient Zambia.”

Hichilema, 64, first became president in 2021 after defeating incumbent Edgar Lungu. His second term will run for another five years.