HH optimistic about concluding discussions with creditors

By Ruth Chayinda

President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says Government is almost concluding discussions with creditors on the country’s debt restructuring.

President HICHILEMA says he has been in touch with China and France which are the Co -Chairs of the committee discussing Zambia’s debt restructuring.

The Head of State says he is expected to meet French President EMMANUEL MACRON on the 10th of this month to discuss the issues around debt.

President HICHILEMA however says he will also use his trip to London this week to interact with debt stakeholders.

He said this when he met with University of Zambia –UNZA- Management, students and the workers union.

President HICHILEMA said once the debt restructuring is concluded, the Government will have sufficient funds to support social sectors such as education.

He said government is not bothered about its critics doubting progress made with concluding debt restructuring negotiations because work is being done in the background.

MEANWHILE, President HICHILEMA said it was unfortunate that the previous Government withdrew meal allowances from students.

President HICHILEMA said meal allowances are a basic minimum a government can do for such a vulnerable group.

He said Government understands the importance of education to growing the economy and having a decent society.

The President stressed that Government is alive to the challenges at the University.

He also tasked Education Minister DOUGLAS SYAKALIMA to address the challenges being faced by UNZA and other institutions of higher learning.

And UNZA Council Chairperson MICHAEL CHILALA said the Council is ready to move the institution to greater heights despite the many challenges it faces.

University of Zambia Students Unions –UNZASU- President CHANDRA CHOONGO thanked Government for reintroducing the meal allowance, saying it will improve the welfare of the students.

UNZA Workers Union Representative ANDREW PHIRI said the employees are unable to access the 20 percent NAPSA partial withdrawal as the institution has huge debt and was failing to meet statutory obligations.

Mr. PHIRI called on Government to come to their assistance and address some of the challenges that workers are faced with.

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