Hakainde Hichilema sworn in as new President of Zambia

Lusaka, Zambia – Hakainde Hichilema was sworn in as Zambia’s seventh president following a landmark victory in the country’s 12 August 2021 general election, marking one of the most significant opposition wins in recent African political history.

Hichilema defeated incumbent President Edgar Lungu by nearly one million votes in his sixth bid for the presidency. His victory represented the 17th opposition election win in sub-Saharan Africa since 2015 and marked the third peaceful transfer of power to an opposition party in Zambia, reinforcing the country’s reputation for democratic elections and peaceful political transitions.

Before entering politics, Hichilema built a successful career in the private sector, serving as the local chief executive of an international accounting firm between 1998 and 2006. He has also held leadership positions in several Zambian companies and is widely known as one of the country’s largest cattle ranchers.

As president, Hichilema faces the challenge of uniting a nation of approximately 18 million people following a divisive election campaign, while addressing Zambia’s economic recovery, which remains one of the government’s highest priorities.