Menu
PRESIDENT HICHILEMA URGES LDCs TO EMBRACE SELF-RELIANCE AND ECONOMIC RESILIENCE
02.04.25……Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, says the recent shifts in global politics should be seen as an opportunity for Least Developed Countries (LDCs) to take charge of their own challenges. He emphasizes the need for these nations to move away from viewing aid as a pillar of their well-being and instead focus on self-sufficiency and sustainable solutions.
The President made these remarks in Lusaka on April 1, 2025, while officially opening the 3rd LDC Future Forum, which is scheduled to run until 3rd April.
Zambia, in collaboration with the United Nations Office of the High Representative for the Least Developed Countries, Landlocked Developing Countries and Small Island Developing States (UN-OHRLLS) and the Government of Finland, is for the first time hosting the 3rd LDC Future Forum.
This high-level event has brought together policymakers, researchers, business leaders, and development partners to explore practical strategies for enhancing the resilience of LDCs against economic, environmental, and social shocks.
President Hichilema, in his opening speech, emphasized that resilience is no longer optional for LDCs but a necessity. As these nations plan for the future, the President stressed the importance of implementing stronger measures to withstand shocks.
He underscored the need for LDCs to collaborate proactively, learn from each other, anticipate challenges, and develop effective responses to ensure sustainable progress.
President Hichilema highlighted the abundant natural resources within LDCs, emphasizing their potential to drive economic growth. He urged LDCs to leverage these resources for trade with the world’s strongest economies, fostering development and paving the way for graduation from LDC status.
The thematic sessions at the Forum are exploring key areas, including climate-smart agriculture practices to improve food security, as well as strategies for integrating sustainable water and energy solutions to enhance resilience.