This year’s independence anniversay celebrations are under the theme PROMOTING INCLUSIVENESS TOWARDS A SUSTAINABLE SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC RECOVERY.

The celebrations started with the laying of wreaths, in honour of the country’s independence freedom fighters, at the Freedom Statue on Independence Avenue in Lusaka.

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA and his Namibian counterpart, HAGE GEINGOB have led various dignitaries, security and defence Chiefs and Diplomats, in the wreath laying ceremony.

And in his sermon, Chaplain-General, HENRY MATIFEYO said that the theme for this year is a challenge on every Zambian to strive for a stable nation, which will prosper economically.

Brigadier-General MATIFEYO noted that through out the previous years, since 1964, the country has seen struggles and hardships, side-by-side democratic challenges.

General MATIFEYO explained that it is however good that the country has surmounted these challenges, adding that every ndependence anniversary must be used to reflect on how the country will face the future.

He added that this day requires Zambians to display high standards of discipline and hardwork, so that the current generation can bequeath the best to future generations.

General MATIFEYO also challenged the BORN-FREE, those, born after 1964, to remid themselves how the fore-fathers fought for independence.

General MATIFEYO added that those born after independence must also appreciate the peace and freedom prevailing in the country, in order that they energise and synergise for national development.

He explained that this can be done through a show of love for the country and one another, through unity and patriotism.

President HICHILEMA and President GEINGOB also laid wreaths at the Embassy Park, the Presidential burial site.

Later an independence investiture ceremony will be held at State House .

During the investiture ceremony, President HICHILEMA is expected to honour and award deserving Zambians, for their outstanding achievements.