Nation mourns former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa

Former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa, widow of late President Levy Mwanawasa, passed away on 13 August at Maina Soko Military Hospital in Lusaka.

According to her family, Mrs Mwanawasa died after a short illness. She was 61 years old.

President Hakainde Hichilema expressed shock and sorrow at the news, calling for national unity and prayer. "We join her family, and indeed the nation, in mourning this loss," President Hichilema said in a statement.

Mrs Mwanawasa served as First Lady from 2002 to 2008 during her husband's presidency. She was known for her advocacy of social causes, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS. She was a founding member and former president of the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS. In 2006 she was honoured with World Vision's International Hope Award.

After her husband's death, Mrs Mwanawasa remained active in public life. In 2016 she ran for mayor of Lusaka, placing second.

Dr Nevers Mumba, leader of the Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), praised Mrs Mwanawasa's legacy of hard work, kindness, and compassion. "May her legacy continue to inspire us," he said.

The nation mourns the loss of a respected and cherished public figure whose contributions to Zambia will long be remembered.