FROM SACRIFICE TO RENEWAL: WHY ZAMBIA MUST CONTINUE THE JOURNEY WITH HICHILEMA
By Sydney Chela | 3 April 2026
As Zambia gathers in solemn reflection during this Easter festivities, the story of Jesus Christ of Nazareth echoes across generations, a story of sacrifice, endurance, and ultimate renewal.
It is a reminder that moments of great transformation are often misunderstood in their time, yet their impact reshapes history forever. In politics, as in faith, leadership must be judged with patience and depth. The ancient philosopher Aristotle taught that every situation demands careful analysis before conclusions are made. Zambia today stands at such a moment.
Under the leadership of Hakainde Hichilema, the nation has witnessed significant strides economic stabilization, expanded social protection, and renewed international confidence, increased social cash transfers improvement of Cash for Work to cushion household difficulties, increased CDF to 40 million, introduction of the school feeding program, managed debt restructuring, partial withdrawals for retirees, skills training, and job recruitment.
Yet the Easter story also reminds us of a profound sequence: there is no Golgotha before Gethsemane. There must first be a period of prayer, struggle, and preparation before the ultimate test and triumph.
In the same way, national transformation is not accidental; it is built through difficult reforms, disciplined choices, and unwavering commitment to a long-term vision.
Progress is not an event; it is a process. The reforms initiated, the systems rebuilt, and the hope restored cannot reach their full potential without continuity. Like the Easter message itself, the journey from sacrifice to renewal is not instantaneous; it requires time, consistency, and faith in the path chosen.
Zambians must therefore reflect deeply, not just emotionally but rationally. The temptation to judge prematurely can derail progress that is still unfolding. A second term is not merely a political endorsement; it is an affirmation that the work started must be completed, that stability must be protected, and that growth must be sustained for future generations.
As we commemorate this sacred season, the lesson is clear: enduring change requires both sacrifice and patience. Or, as history reminds us in sobering clarity: “last time investigations were rushed Jesus Christ of Nazareth was tried in 72 hrs, crucified and died, and the world has never been the same.”