Stakeholders in Solwezi district of North Western Province have commended President Hakainde Hichilema for his dedication to upholding National values and Principles.

North Western Regional Bethel Church International Bishop Sebastian Mbambiko says the Presidential address on National values and principles is an indication of the President’s commitment to having citizens who uphold National values and principles.

He explained that National values and principles play an important role in promoting peace and unity among the citizens.

The Clergyman told ZANIS in an interview that National values and principles comprise of Christian and traditional norms hence the need for concerted efforts in upholding them.

“We need to sit down as a country and find ways of how to pass on these National values and principles to the young generation who are the future leaders ,”he said

Bishop Mbambiko has appealed to the government to incorporate National values and principles in the school curriculum if they are to be upheld by all Zambians.

The Bishop has since urged the church to play an active role in inculcating good morals and values in members of the community, especially the youths.

” As a church, we need to educate our members on the importance of upholding Christian values,” he said

Bishop Mbambiko has also implored the government to engage the church in programmes that help sensitive citizens on National values and principles.

He has further challenged the department of religious affairs to take the Presidential address seriously by conducting sensitization on National principles and values across the country.

And a Senior Citizen George Kasito said inculcating cultural values among community members is key in upholding National values.

He explained that the culture of a Nation is cardinal in having community members who are principled in order for them to be united.

Mr Kasito has called on elders in communities to pass on traditional norms and cultures to young people adding that passing on knowledge will help to preserve the country’s culture and identity.

“As elders we have vast knowledge and experience about life and there is need for them to share it with the community for the betterment of the country,” he noted

Mr Kasito said  lack of respect for National values and principles among young people has led to youths engaging in illicit activities that are retrogressive to their future and country’s development.

He has emphasized on the need for concerted efforts to promote National values and principles.