Delivering on Jobs, Prosperity, Schools and Hospitals but "More to do" Says RB

LUSAKA, Zambia, November 1, 2010 /PRNewswire/ -- Tomorrow, 2 November 2010, marks two years since His Excellency Mr Rupiah Banda became President of Zambia.

President Banda succeeded the late President Levy Mwanawasa in November 2008, promising to build on his predecessor's achievements by campaigning on the themes of 'Continuity, Good Governance and Prosperity for All.'

Since then, President Banda has successfully guided Zambia through the worst global recession in living memory, achieving steady economic growth which is predicted to be above 6.6% next year.

He has managed to bring inflation down to 8% and has boosted annual export earnings to more than US$5.6 billion.

For the people of Zambia, President Banda's passion and drive has resulted in the largest ever maize harvest and steadily decreasing food prices. In the mining sector, his determination to re-open five mines has seen 1000 new jobs created.

On the eve of his two year anniversary, President Banda took the opportunity to reflect on his government's achievements.

"It was a huge honor for me to be invited to become president in 2008. I have sought to repay this honor to Zambia every day, in every decision I take and every partnership I build," he said.

"Zambia is a proud country, full of people who have worked tirelessly to secure and build on our independence. We have achieved great things and I am proud to have been at the helm during a time of such progress.

"Since 2008, we have trained 12,500 new teachers, built 87 new schools and commissioned 12 new district hospitals. This progress is visible across our great country but there is so much more to do. I look forward to leading Zambia to even greater success and I hope the people will give me the opportunity to do so, in next year's election."

    Issued by:

                                  Dickson Jere
                       SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT
                           PRESS AND PUBLIC RELATIONS

SOURCE State House Lusaka, Republic of Zambia