Leaders of Zambia, South Sudan, Namibia, Mozambique, and Malawi have delivered hopeful messages for the New Year.
On Wednesday, as nations across the continent celebrated Christmas Day, African leaders called for peace and unity.
Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, in a televised address to the nation, stated, “Let this season of love, unity, reconciliation, and peace set the tone for the year ahead.” On Christmas Eve, Hichilema pardoned 759 prisoners and commuted the sentences of 17 others.
South Sudanese President Salva Kiir Mayardit urged all people to embrace peace and unity during the festive season. “Let this holiday be a time when we come together with a common commitment to a peaceful, prosperous, and united South Sudan,” he said. In his address to the nation, Kiir added, “As we celebrate this Christmas, let us carry the message of peace and hope into the New Year.”
The government also reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring a peaceful and secure environment, “not only during the holiday season but throughout the year.”
Namibian President Nangolo Mbumba called on the nation to share and care under the slogan “One Namibia, One Nation.” He expressed gratitude for the hard work of essential workers and security personnel who continue to safeguard the nation. “As many of us enjoy a well-deserved holiday, let us not forget those who work tirelessly to keep our country safe and functional,” he said. “I extend my deepest gratitude to our essential workers and the brave men and women in uniform who protect our peace day and night.”
In Mozambique, following violent unrest after controversial elections, religious leaders called for peace to prevail in the country. In their Christmas messages, they condemned the rising violence, which had prevented local Christians from celebrating the holiday “in the usual manner.” Following the October 9th presidential election and its contested results, deadly protests in Mozambique claimed at least 151 lives.
Malawian President Lazarus Chakwera, amid deep political divisions in the southern African country, called for unity.
