Yesha
Senior Member
- Jan 28, 2026
- 138
- 64
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has congratulated Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on his inauguration for a second term, describing Zambia as a beacon of democratic stability, peaceful governance and unity in Africa.
Hichilema was sworn in on Tuesday at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka after winning the August 13 presidential election, securing another five-year term.
In a message following the inauguration, Mnangagwa extended his congratulations on behalf of the Zimbabwean government and people, saying the peaceful transfer and consolidation of power in Zambia reflected the strong ties between the two neighbouring countries.
“Zambia continues to serve as a beacon of democratic stability, peaceful governance, and unity on our continent,” Mnangagwa said.
He said the inauguration highlighted the shared history, culture and development interests linking Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Mnangagwa also expressed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Zambia, particularly through increased economic cooperation and collaboration within regional and continental bodies.
“We look forward to further strengthening our bilateral relations, deepening our economic cooperation, and working hand-in-hand within SADC and the African Union to build a more prosperous and integrated region for all our people,” he said.
He further wished Hichilema and Vice President Mutale Nalumango “abundant wisdom, excellent health, and immense success” as they begin the new term.
Hichilema’s second-term inauguration brought together regional leaders and international representatives, including Mnangagwa, amid growing attention on Zambia’s political and economic direction.
However, the inauguration also came against a backdrop of controversy surrounding the August election, with opposition figures and observers raising concerns over alleged irregularities. Reuters reported that Hichilema’s main challenger, Brian Mundubile, and his running mate faced treason charges ahead of the swearing-in.
Mnangagwa’s message focused on the importance of continued cooperation between Harare and Lusaka, concluding with prayers for Zambia and the enduring partnership between the two countries.
Hichilema was sworn in on Tuesday at the National Heroes Stadium in Lusaka after winning the August 13 presidential election, securing another five-year term.
In a message following the inauguration, Mnangagwa extended his congratulations on behalf of the Zimbabwean government and people, saying the peaceful transfer and consolidation of power in Zambia reflected the strong ties between the two neighbouring countries.
“Zambia continues to serve as a beacon of democratic stability, peaceful governance, and unity on our continent,” Mnangagwa said.
He said the inauguration highlighted the shared history, culture and development interests linking Zimbabwe and Zambia.
Mnangagwa also expressed Zimbabwe’s commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Zambia, particularly through increased economic cooperation and collaboration within regional and continental bodies.
“We look forward to further strengthening our bilateral relations, deepening our economic cooperation, and working hand-in-hand within SADC and the African Union to build a more prosperous and integrated region for all our people,” he said.
He further wished Hichilema and Vice President Mutale Nalumango “abundant wisdom, excellent health, and immense success” as they begin the new term.
Hichilema’s second-term inauguration brought together regional leaders and international representatives, including Mnangagwa, amid growing attention on Zambia’s political and economic direction.
However, the inauguration also came against a backdrop of controversy surrounding the August election, with opposition figures and observers raising concerns over alleged irregularities. Reuters reported that Hichilema’s main challenger, Brian Mundubile, and his running mate faced treason charges ahead of the swearing-in.
Mnangagwa’s message focused on the importance of continued cooperation between Harare and Lusaka, concluding with prayers for Zambia and the enduring partnership between the two countries.
