Vice President Mutale Nalumango has urged Zambians to continue towards upholding, protecting and treasure the peace the country has enjoyed since attaining independence in 1964.

Mrs Nalumango says the peace Zambians have experienced for 60 years should never be taken for granted.

Speaking when she unveiled the logo and theme for Zambia’s 60 years of independence commemorations dubbed ‘Zambia at 60’, the Vice President said the nation’s stability remains rooted in peace, security and political stability.

Mrs Nalumango announced that the theme for Zambia’s Diamond jubilee celebrations is: “60 years strong: Honouring our heritage, embracing the future.

The Vice President said the theme is a symbol of the country’s principles of unity.

“This theme speaks to who we are: a united people ready to forge ahead in the midst of varied challenges at global and domestic levels. Let us, therefore, continue to tap into the abundant human and natural resources for the benefit of our great nation, Zambia,” Mrs Nalumango said.

And Minister of Local Government and Rural Development Gary Nkombo lamented that some citizens live in unsanitary conditions 60 years after independence.

Mr Nkombo however assured that the Government is working hard towards improving the situation.

“This is the reason why the theme sits right at the heart of the activities and my Ministry. Our promise to yourselves who are supervising us is we are going to do everything possible to sanitise our country to help us and our citizens to live in conditions that are less degrading,” the Minister said.

Meanwhile Lusaka Province Minister Sheal Mulyata in a speech read on her behalf by Permanent Secretary Robert Kamalata said 60 years of independence offers an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by heroes of Zambia’s liberation struggle.

“We remember the sacrifices made by our forefathers who fought for liberation and the Zambia we have today.”