(ZANIS) President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA says government will continue to work with traditional leaders to foster development.

The President says the government means well for the people of Zambia and will ensure that it works with everyone including chiefs.

And President HICHILEMA has thanked Muchinga and Northern Provinces for increased maize production when other parts of the country experienced drought.

He says government is impressed that the two provinces managed to produce maize amidst drought in other parts of the country.

ZANIS reports that President HICHILEMA said this today when he met traditional leaders attending the 2024 Umutomolo Traditional Ceremony of the Namwanga people in Nakonde.

The Head of State also paid a courtesy call on Chieftainess WAITWIKA.

President HICHILEMA praised traditional leaders for promoting peace and unity in the country.

He noted that conflict brings division and it should not be entertained.

And Chief KATYETYE of Isoka commended government for working on the Nakonde-Chinsali road.

Chief KATYETYE said the road was in a dilapidated state and posing serious problems for users.

The Chief also praised government for the different projects that it is implementing across the country.

Meanwhile, Chief KATYETYE has urged government to ensure inputs under the Farmer Input Support Programme are made available to farmers in the province on time.

And Chief NKAMBO of Masaiti, who is also the House of Chiefs Chairperson, praised President HICHILEMA for supporting traditional ceremonies in the country.