"Maintain Peace and Unity," Urges President Banda on the Eve of Election Year

By State House Lusaka Republic Of Zambia, PRNE
Thursday, December 30, 2010

LUSAKA, Zambia, December 31, 2010 - As the people of Zambia prepare to welcome in a new year, President
Rupiah Banda has taken a moment to reflect on the achievements of 2010 and to
set new goals for Zambia in 2011.

In his last statement of the year, President Banda applauds the country
for the great progress made over the last year and urges everyone to work
together to achieve even greater things in the months to come.

He said: "I am hugely proud of what we as a nation have achieved during
2010, building on the foundations of tomorrow's Zambia. It is quite clear
that we have scored many successes under the fifth national development plan,
which ends today; we witnessed improved economic growth at a healthy 6.1%,
reduced inflation and increased foreign investment.

"While much of the world was in economic turmoil, we employed more
people, opened several mines and enjoyed a bumper harvest. Through the Farmer
Input Support Programme, one million farmers will benefit in the 2010/2011
farming season.

"Let me assure you that your government remains firmly committed to
reducing poverty and reaping the benefits of our recent economic
achievements. It is the intention of my government to ensure that every
Zambian feels and shares in the prosperity we have begun to create for
ourselves.

"The year 2011 is a very important year for all Zambians. We should
strive to maintain peace and unity which are pre-requisites to successful
elections. The spirit of love and giving that we are displaying during this
festive season should transcend the season into the election campaign period
- and let us all celebrate the new year peacefully and responsibly."

President Banda concluded: "I wish you all a happy and prosperous 2011.
May God bless our great nation."

                                   Issued by:

                                  Dickson Jere
                       SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
                           PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

Dickson Jere, SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT, PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS, address press at presidentbanda.com

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