61st Independence Day Address to the Nation

President Hichilema delivered the Independence Day address to the nation on 24 October 2025, marking Zambia's 61st anniversary of independence from British colonial rule. The commemoration was held under the theme "Sustaining Freedom through Unity, Hard Work and Innovation." The guest of honour was Mozambican President Daniel Chapo, who was on a three-day working visit to Zambia at the invitation of President Hichilema.

The national commemorative events included a grand Independence Day parade, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Freedom Statue in honour of freedom fighters, and attendance by diplomatic envoys and government officials. President Hichilema and President Chapo jointly participated in the ceremony. The two leaders also held bilateral talks at State House, reviewing the status of existing bilateral agreements and exploring new areas of cooperation under the Southern African Development Community (SADC) framework.

As part of the Independence Day commemorations, President Hichilema granted clemency to 163 inmates across Zambia's correctional facilities — 148 men and 15 women — in a gesture the government described as reflecting national values of forgiveness and unity. The announcement was made by Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister Jack Mwiimbu, who confirmed that the pardons formed part of broader efforts to promote restorative justice and reaffirm Zambia's commitment to peaceful coexistence and inclusive development.

In his address, President Hichilema reaffirmed the national motto of "One Zambia, One Nation," adding "One People" to emphasise the need for oneness among citizens as the country looks ahead to its 2026 general elections.