Zambia : Veep Nalumango urges Africa to cement democratic ideals

Vice President Mutale Nalumango has challenged African countries participating in the recently concluded Second Summit for Democracy to take seriously the proposals to deepen their democratic practices.

ZANIS reports that Mrs Nalumango said it is important for participants to ensure that all proposals are realized as a way of enhancing democracy for the benefit of the people.

Speaking during the closing ceremony of the 2nd Summit for Democracy in Lusaka, Mrs. Nalumango explained that the issues discussed during the summit are important for promoting development on the African continent.

He said that countries also need to pursue and promote social and economic development, which is based on inclusiveness for all citizens, including vulnerable groups such as women, youth and people with disabilities.

He stressed the need for countries to promote free and fair elections as a base towards achieving democracy and development.

The Vice President further called upon African governments to work together towards creating an enabling environment for democracy and good governance through respect for human rights and the rule of law.

Mrs. Nalumango said that for African countries, as enshrined in the African Union, they committed to enter democracy, therefore there is a need to ensure that in the next summit for democracy, the various agreements reached during this summit There is a need to show progress on decisions.

He thanked the United States Government for giving Zambia the opportunity to co-host an important event aimed at highlighting the role of democracy in national development.

and United States Assistance for International Development USAID, Assistant Administrator for Africa Monde Muyangwa thanked the Zambian government for the efforts it has made over the past 18 months to strengthen democracy.

Dr. Muyangwa further called for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to ensure that there is effective delivery of democracy and development in all countries.

He also pledged the continued support of the US government to promote and protect the principles of democracy in the world.