• The campaign dubbed ‘proudly Zambian’ has been enshrined in the minds of the locals.
• This is not only creating a ready market for our local producers but also creating employment opportunities.
• Journalists in the country need to exercise fairness, professionalism and objectivity.

President Edgar Lungu says increased consumption of locally made products is creating a ready market for local producers.
Speaking when he delivered a State of the Nation Address on the progress made in the application of national values and principles, President Lungu says this is an indication that the campaign dubbed ‘proudly Zambian’ has been enshrined in the minds of the locals.
“I am encouraged to see that more of our local products are being sold in shops and that more of our people are consuming these products. This is patriotism. It is also a clear indication that our proudly Zambian campaign has taken root,” he said.
The Head of State has disclosed that 33 companies have so far been certified to use the official ‘proudly Zambian’ Logo, covering over 500 product lines.
President Lungu said the benefits accruing to this national consciousness are evident in the increased consumption of what the country produces.
“This is not only creating a ready market for our local producers but also creating employment opportunities for more of our people, particularly the youth,” the Head of State added.
He further encouraged all citizens to consume more of locally manufactured products and services offered by the locals.
“I, therefore, urge all citizens to always think local first when buying goods and services. It should be a matter of pride to consume what we produce,” he stated.
Meanwhile, President Lungu has advised journalists in the country to exercise fairness, professionalism and objectivity as they carry out their duties.
He says media practitioners should avoid accepting gifts and being pampered with money and material things in order not to compromise their reporting.
The President further stated that it being an election year, the media will continue to play its very important role of being the fourth estate.
“I am a firm believer of press freedom and as we approach the general election this august, i call upon all Zambians to allow journalists to perform their function of reporting on events leading to these elections freely,” the President added.