Zambia lays to rest former First Lady Dr Maureen Mwanawasa

The nation joined the Mwanawasa family in laying to rest former First Lady Dr Maureen Mwanawasa, who passed away on 13 August 2024 at the age of 61.

Her burial took place at Lusaka's Leopards Hill Memorial Park on 19 August, a date that holds particular poignancy as it coincided with the anniversary of her late husband President Levy Patrick Mwanawasa's death in 2008 and marked 30 years since her own graduation as a lawyer.

Vice President Mutale Nalumango led the nation in paying final respects and presented the Zambian national flag to the bereaved family. The country mourned alongside the Mwanawasas, remembering a woman renowned for her compassion and unwavering commitment to supporting the vulnerable through various charitable endeavours.

At the funeral service held in the Cathedral of the Holy Cross, President Hakainde Hichilema eulogised Dr Mwanawasa, urging Zambians to emulate her dedication to helping those less fortunate.

"Dr Maureen Mwanawasa's life offers us a valuable lesson," the President said. "We must ask ourselves: How are we serving our communities? Are we reaching out to those in need? Her legacy of hard work and national service should inspire us all."

President Hichilema also assured continued government support to the Mwanawasa and Kakubo families.

Mildred Chuumbwe, formerly of the Maureen Mwanawasa Community Initiative, highlighted the late First Lady's impactful community work, describing her as a visionary leader dedicated to empowering vulnerable women and youth. Dr Mwanawasa's elder brother Patson Kakubo also remembered his sister.

Representatives from organisations she supported, including the Breakthrough Cancer Trust and Habitat for Humanity Zambia, paid tribute to her enduring commitment to their causes.

 Image: Hakainde Hichilema Facebook