?Zambian President Edgar Lungu lays a wreath at the Freedom Statue in Lusaka, Zambia, May 25, 2018. Zambia on Friday joined the rest of Africa in commemorating the Africa Day. (Xinhua/Chanda Mwenya)
LUSAKA, May 25 (Xinhua) -- Zambian on Friday joined the rest of Africa in commemorating Africa Day with President Edgar Lungu saying winning the fight against corruption was a stepping stone to transforming the African continent.
This year's Africa Day is being commemorated under the theme "Winning the Fight against Corruption: A Sustainable Path to Africa's Transformation."
The Zambian leader said in a televised address that this year's theme beckons countries to reflect on overcoming shortcomings as well as calls on countries to decisively deal with the things that have held the continent from realizing its full potential.
The adoption of the theme, he said, signifies Africa's collective commitment to the fight against corruption.
He further said Africa should be bold enough to confront the things that have gone wrong on the continent, adding that there should be no room to celebrate or abet vices that weaken the cohesion and freedom of people.
The president said his administration was determined to effectively implement corruption prevention measures by continuously improving corruption detection and promoting fast and effective court processes.
The main event held in Lusaka, the country's capital, started with the laying of wreaths in honor of people who died while fighting for the independence of the continent.
The solemn ceremony was characterized by solemn music as Lungu led other government officials as well as ambassadors accredited to Zambia in laying wreaths at the Freedom Statue.
The celebrations later moved to State House, the official residence and office of the Zambian leader, for a ceremony and luncheon were various individuals were honored for the contributions to the country's development.
