Newly appointed minister for North Western province Robert Lihefu has indicated that the UPND government will closely work with all traditional leaders across the country.
Mr Lihefu said this is because traditional leaders are key stakeholders in the development of the country.
He stated that despite the scrapping off of the ministry of Chiefs and Traditional affairs, the UPND government still attaches great importance to their royal highnesses as they are custodians of the people.
“Yes, the ministry of Chiefs and Traditional Affairs has been scrapped off, but that does not mean that we will work in isolation without involving their royal highnesses, We will work closely with them because we believe they are key stakeholders in terms of development,” said Mr Lihefu.
The minister was speaking when he addressed heads of department in Solwezi.
And Mr Lihefu has called on civil servants in the province to acquaint themselves with the UPND manifesto.
He said this is because the document provides information on how the UPND policies ought to be implemented.
“Each government that comes in has its own guiding principle, and that principle is the party manifesto. I therefore urge each one of you to acquaint yourselves with the document,” he said.
He also called on civil servants to work hard and implement government policies and deliver the much needed services to the people adding that he will not tolerate laziness among civil servants.
And outgoing North western province Permanent Secretary Willies Mangimela urged civil servants in the province to give maximum support to the new administration.
And speaking on behalf of other civil servants, Gift Moonga assured the provincial administration of their full support.
“On behalf of my colleagues, I wish to assure you that we will give you maximum support in your tour of duty,” said Mr. Moonga.
