Hichilema Says the Church and State Must Corporate

President Hakainde Hichilema has affirmed that the state is not in competition with the church, but rather a partner, and the two institutions will continue to collaborate for the benefit of the people and the country.

Speaking at the Southern Zambia Union Conference Dorcas Rally of the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church in Monze, Southern Province, Hichilema addressed a gathering of more than 37,000 Dorcas workers. Held under the theme “Deepen and Deploy,” the rally brought together thousands of women united in worship and empowerment.

Hichilema praised the Dorcas Society for its crucial role in uplifting communities across Zambia. “Let me zero in on the role and impact of the Dorcas mothers and how these wonderful women are assisting the community,” he said.

The President acknowledged their unwavering service and assured them that their efforts are recognised and valued by the government. “We must work hard and sacrifice our personal interests for the greater good. That is the message we take from the Dorcas mothers,” he added.

He also reiterated the government’s commitment to women’s empowerment and to the values shared with the Adventist mission, particularly in rural communities. He pointed to the Constituency Development Fund (CDF) as a key resource for supporting grassroots initiatives and encouraged the Dorcas Society to engage with local leaders to access it.

The rally served as a strong demonstration of the enduring partnership between faith-based organisations and the government, underlining their shared goal of building a more just and empowered Zambia.