Bright Zambian Future, Rousing US Relations Elate Simbyakula

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PRESS STATEMENT

- FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -

Washington D.C., 1st August 2019 – Zambia’s Ambassador to the United States Dr. Ngosa Simbyakula has paid tribute to the US government for its support to Zambia and hailed the cadre of young Zambian leaders who just completed their tour of the USA as promising, talented and an inspirational lot who can greatly contribute to the country’s development.

Ambassador Simbyakula said better times lay ahead for Zambia because the country’s young people were determined to work hard to better their lives and that of the general populace.
He said young people had the energy, enthusiasm and drive to work hard and to contribute to the development of the country.

Dr Simbyakula was speaking at his residence in Washington D.C. when he hosted a dinner for 2019 Mandela Washington Fellows at which the 25 young Zambians shared life-changing and inspiring experiences of their time at the various universities they attended during their stay in the USA.

The Mandela Washington Fellowship for Young African Leaders is the flagship program of the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) that empowers young people through academic coursework, leadership training, and networking.

In 2019, the Fellowship provided 700 outstanding young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa out of which 25 were from Zambia.

The Zambian Fellows recounted their records of accomplishment in promoting innovation and positive impact in their organizations, institutions, communities. The young Zambians are working in various sectors including agriculture, commerce, community and government departments. One of the highlights included the opportunity for an emerging business to export organic honey to the United States.

“Seeing such talent among Zambia’s young people gives one hope that the future of Zambia is secured. Your energy and experiences you’ve narrated and what you want to do and doing are inspiring. There are better times ahead for our country. We are already seeing a glimpse of a bright future for Zambia,” Ambassador Simbyakula said adding: “On your return home, be committed to applying the leadership skills and training you acquired. We are glad with what you have done and what you’ll do. This onus is on you to take Zambia to the next level. I would also like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the United States government for contributing to empowering our future leaders through the Mandela Washington Fellowship program.”

Sekayi Fundafunda Lungu, who spoke for the Fellows hailed Dr Simbyakula for the support and encouragement given to them.

Ms. Fundafunda Lungu commended and thanked President Edgar Lungu and Government for support and platform given to them and other young people to excel. She paid glowing tribute to the US Government for providing a wonderful platform for them to hone their leadership and business skills.

Issued by:

Eric Mwanza
First Secretary – Press
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia
Washington D.C.