The following is a timeline of the presidency of Hakainde Hichilema, beginning with his inauguration as the seventh President of Zambia on 24 August 2021[1] and covering major political, economic, social, and diplomatic developments through mid-2025.[2]Hakainde Hichilema, leader of the United Party for National Development (UPND), was elected president in the general election held on 12 August 2021, defeating incumbent president Edgar Lungu. His election marked a transfer of power following a period of economic instability, including Zambia’s 2020 sovereign debt default.
Hichilema’s early presidency was characterized by efforts to stabilize the economy, re-engage international financial institutions, and implement governance and public sector reforms. Over the course of his tenure, the government addressed public health emergencies, climate-related challenges, infrastructure development, and political disputes involving opposition parties and former officials.[3][4]
2021: Inauguration and Early Reforms
Hakainde Hichilema during his Inauguration
Upon taking office, Hichilema prioritized restoring economic stability following Zambia’s historic default on Eurobond debts in 2020 and addressing allegations of widespread corruption under the previous administration. His government initiated engagements with international financial institutions, including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank, aimed at restructuring Zambia’s external debt and attracting foreign investment.[5]
The president appointed a cabinet that blended experienced politicians and technocrats, signaling a commitment to competent governance and professionalized public service delivery.[6][7]
Hichilema inherited an economy in recession, burdened by high debt levels, double-digit inflation, and significant fiscal deficits. Urgent fiscal and monetary reforms were required to stabilize the currency and restore macroeconomic balance.[8]
Political tensions persisted in the immediate post-election period, with resistance from elements of the previous ruling Patriotic Front (PF) and public skepticism about the new government’s ability to deliver rapid change amid high expectations.[9]
2022: Economic Recovery and Social Policies
Hichilema and first lady Mutinta during the Official opening of the 2nd Session of the 13th National Assembly.
Major mining investments were secured, including a US$1.25 billion expansion by First Quantum Minerals at the Kansanshi Copper Mine and the commencement of production at the Enterprise Nickel Mine in Kalumbila, positioning Zambia as Africa’s largest nickel producer.[10]
On the international front, Zambia voted at the United Nations to condemn Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, signaling a commitment to international norms and multilateral engagement. In April, Zambia and the Democratic Republic of the Congo signed a bilateral agreement to develop an electric battery value chain, linking the countries’ mineral wealth to clean energy technologies.[11]
The administration also advanced efforts to revitalize regional infrastructure, with plans to upgrade the TAZARA Railway through public-private partnerships.[12]
2024: Consolidation and Security Concerns
In December 2024, security concerns came to the forefront when two individuals were arrested for allegedly plotting to hex President Hichilema, an incident that drew widespread media attention and highlighted persistent political risks.[13]
The government also faced criticism over its efforts to fully eradicate corruption and ensure that economic growth translated into equitable benefits for all Zambians.[14][15]
2025 (First Half): Preparing for Re-election and Ongoing Development
By mid-2025, significant job creation across key sectors contributed to growing public support ahead of the 2026 general elections.[16] The administration prioritized infrastructure development, with the commissioning of the 100 MW Chisamba Solar Power Plant.[17] and significant progress on the Lusaka–Ndola Dual Carriageway, a transformative road project connecting the capital with Zambia’s key mining and industrial hubs.[18] These projects marked major milestones in the country’s renewable energy and transport agendas.
In addition, legislative reforms were advanced to strengthen governance and democratic institutions, including constitutional amendments such as Bill 7,[19] aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability in public office.
The first half of 2025 was also marked by national mourning following the death of former president Edgar Lungu in June,[20] which led to political and legal disputes over the location of his burial.[21][22]
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