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Monday 19 August was a sad day for Zambia as the nation joined the Mwanawasa family in the funeral of former First Lady Dr Maureen Kakubo Mwanawasa, who died on 13 August 2024. Her burial at Leopard Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka was significant as it coincided with the anniversary of her late husband, President Levy Patrick Mwanawasa’s death in 2008, and also marked her 30th anniversary of graduation as a lawyer.
Vice President Mutale Nalumango led mourners in paying their last respects and presented the family with the Zambian flag on behalf of the Government. The nation joins the Mwanawasa family in mourning the loss of an exceptional daughter of Zambia, who was known for her compassion, resilience and unwavering commitment to supporting the less privileged through her various charitable initiatives.
Addressing the funeral service at the Holy Cross Cathedral, President Hakainde Hichilema called on all Zambians to emulate Dr Mwanawasa’s dedication to helping the less fortunate. He praised her for channelling her positive energy into improving the lives of many and urged citizens to think about how they can contribute positively to their communities.
“We should learn lessons from her life. What have we done for our community? Have you helped those in need? Have you helped others in their lives? Dr Maureen Mwanawasa must be remembered for her hard work and contribution to the country,” President Hichilema said.
The President also assured the families of Mwanawasa and Kakubo of the government’s continued support and encouraged them to remain united in memory of the late President Mwanawasa and the late Dr Maureen Mwanawasa.
At the memorial service, former Maureen Mwanawasa Community Initiatives Programme Officer Mildred Chumbwe highlighted the positive impact of Dr Mwanawasa’s community initiatives. She described the late First Lady as a visionary and dedicated leader who worked tirelessly to help vulnerable women and youth.
Dr Mwanawasa’s brother, Patterson Kakubo, thanked President Hichilema for giving his sister a formal funeral. He remembered her as a true homemaker who united people and included everyone.
Dr Maureen Mwanawasa, 61, served as Zambia’s First Lady from 2002 to 2008, when her husband was president. Her legacy of integrity, hard work and commitment to national development continues to inspire the country.
The late former First Lady was also remembered by representatives of organisations she passionately supported. Demetria Rubinda of the Breakthrough Cancer Trust spoke of Dr Mwanawasa’s commitment to the fight against cancer, while Mulaya Muleba of Habitat for Humanity Zambia praised her dedication as an honorary board member.
As Zambia bids farewell to Dr Maureen Mwanawasa, her memory will live on as one of humility, service and love for her country.
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