57th Independence Day Address to the Nation

President Hichilema delivered his first Independence Day address as Head of State on 24 October 2021, marking Zambia's 57th anniversary of independence from British colonial rule. The commemoration was held under the theme "Celebrating the New Dawn Anchored on Good Governance, National Unity and Development."

Speaking on the eve of Independence Day, President Hichilema paid glowing tribute to all the freedom fighters who fought for the country's liberation from colonial rule, citing in particular the late founding President Dr Kenneth Kaunda and veteran politician Simon Zukas, both of whom had passed on earlier in the year.

"We cannot forget our brave men and women who made this freedom possible. It is very important that we pay tribute to our freedom fighters all of them without exception. We remember Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Mr Simon Zukas who passed on recently but did a great job for the generations to come. This generation of selfless and patriotic citizens sacrificed for the freedom we enjoy today. We thank God for them and we must not forget what they stood for, we must never forget their works, we must emulate their hard work and selfless leadership — never forget," he said.

President Hichilema called on Zambians to set aside their political differences and celebrate the country's independence. He stressed that the 24th of October is a special day that gives the Zambian people an opportunity to reflect on the freedom and self-rule prevailing in the country.

"The day invokes fond memories of those who fought hard and won us independence from colonial rule. This gives us an opportunity to reflect on our freedom and self-rule. The day also reminds us of the need to promote patriotism and national unity. On this day we have reasons to put aside our differences and celebrate our liberation from colonialism and celebrate our journey to a sovereign and prosperous Zambia," he said.

The President assured the Zambian people that his administration would deliver on the campaign promises it had made prior to the August 12 general elections, promising to improve the livelihoods of the people through prudent management of the country's resources and to uphold transparency and accountability in the management of public affairs.

"You our people have put your trust in our administration and we believe that we will make your lives much better, it is a commitment and a promise. The new dawn brings renewed hope for a better Zambia," he said.

On 24 October 2021, President Hichilema led Zambians, members of the diplomatic corps, and defence chiefs in laying wreaths at the Freedom Statue in Lusaka in remembrance of departed heroes and heroines who fought for Zambia's independence. This was the first wreath-laying ceremony President Hichilema graced as Head of State.