Media Key to Zambia's Development Story, Says Outgoing UN Coordinator

 By Alain Kabinda

LUSAKA, 4 August 2026 — United Nations (UN) Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Ms. Beatrice Mutali, has commended the country's media for its critical role in promoting development, accountability and public awareness, describing journalists as indispensable partners in Zambia's development journey. 

Speaking during a UN Media Breakfast in Lusaka, Ms. Mutali said the gathering has provided an opportunity to share highlights of the United Nations' 2025 Annual Results Report while also recognizing the contribution of journalists in communicating the UN's support to the people of Zambia. 

She noted that the media has played a vital role in amplifying development messages, raising awareness of national priorities and helping citizens understand how the United Nations contributes to national development. 

"The media informs, amplifies unheard voices, promotes accountability and fosters constructive dialogue. By bridging policy and people, it helps citizens understand developments, their significance and their impact on communities and national progress," she said. 

Ms. Mutali praised journalists, bloggers, columnists and media houses for highlighting stories of progress in areas such as health, education, women's and youth empowerment, climate resilience, food security and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

She said the UN's 2025 Annual Results Report demonstrates that meaningful progress is achieved through strong partnerships involving government, development partners, civil society, the private sector, communities and the media. 

"The achievements we present today are not the work of the United Nations alone. They are the result of partnerships grounded in a shared commitment to improving the lives of people in Zambia, leaving no one behind," she said. 

The event also marked a moment of personal reflection for Ms. Mutali as she prepares to conclude her tenure as United Nations Resident Coordinator in Zambia at the end of August 2026. 

Describing her service in Zambia as both a privilege and an inspiration, she said she had witnessed the resilience, determination and optimism of the Zambian people while working alongside government, traditional leaders, civil society, development partners, the private sector and communities across the country. 

She highlighted the importance of collective action in responding to climate-related shocks, supporting vulnerable communities, strengthening human capital development, promoting social inclusion and expanding opportunities for women and young people.

 Ms. Mutali expressed pride in the way the UN Country Team had worked as one in support of Zambia's national development priorities, bringing together expertise, resources and partnerships to deliver tangible benefits for communities while strengthening national institutions. 

She emphasized that sustainable development requires inclusive approaches that invest in women and girls, empower young people, address inequalities and ensure that no one is left behind. 

Reflecting on her tenure, Ms. Mutali said development is ultimately about improving people's lives through access to quality education, healthcare and economic opportunities.

 "Behind every statistic is a human story, and those stories continue to inspire our work," she said. 

She also expressed gratitude to Zambia's media fraternity for its professionalism, commitment to factual reporting and constructive engagement, noting that credible journalism is increasingly important in an era of rapid information flows and misinformation. 

Ms. Mutali said the partnership between the United Nations and the media has helped bring complex development issues closer to the public while ensuring important stories receive the attention they deserve. 

She expressed confidence that the relationship between the UN and Zambia's media would continue to grow stronger and encouraged journalists to share their perspectives on how collaboration could be further strengthened. 

Ms. Mutali concluded by thanking journalists for their partnership throughout her tenure and said she leaves Zambia with deep appreciation for the friendships, collaboration and lessons the country has offered her.

(c) All Copyrights reserved.