Lusangazi District yesterday joined the rest of the country in commemorating Kenneth Kaunda Day with a solemn and reflective event held at Ray Catholic Church in Chingolo Ward of Lusangazi district.
The district-level commemoration brought together government officials, church leaders, traditional authorities, and community members to honour the life and legacy of Zambia’s founding President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, under the 2026 theme, “Celebrating KK: The Patriot and Peacemaker.”
Speaking during the event, District Commissioner Mrs. Margaret Chisomo Zulu Banda delivered a heartfelt message highlighting Dr. Kaunda’s immense contribution to Zambia’s independence and nation-building. She noted that his central role in leading Zambia to independence in 1964 was a historic milestone that inspired hope not only for the nation but across Africa.
Mrs. Banda emphasized that Dr. Kaunda’s leadership was grounded in the philosophy of Zambian Humanism, which promotes unity, equality, compassion, and mutual respect. She further underscored his commitment to peace and his steadfast support for liberation movements in Southern Africa, which aided the independence of several countries in the region.
She added that Dr. Kaunda’s investments in key sectors such as education and health laid a strong foundation for Zambia’s development, while his enduring motto, “One Zambia, One Nation,” continues to guide the country today. Describing him as a humble and principled leader, the District Commissioner said his simplicity, often symbolized by his trademark white handkerchief, made him relatable and widely respected.
While acknowledging that his leadership faced challenges, Mrs. Banda stressed that Dr. Kaunda’s positive contributions far outweigh any criticism, noting that he remains a respected figure regionally and globally for his stance against colonialism, neo-colonialism, and apartheid.
The District Commissioner also used the platform to address pressing social issues in the district. She expressed concern over young boys engaging in cattle herding at the expense of education and called on traditional leaders to help end child labour and early marriages. She urged parents and guardians to prioritise children’s education to secure a better future.
Mrs. Banda further encouraged beneficiaries of Constituency Development Fund (CDF) loans to remain honest and repay funds as agreed, emphasising that the initiative is a revolving fund meant to benefit many. She also advised farmers and community members to avoid selling all their produce and instead keep sufficient reserves to prevent hunger.
Additionally, she called on religious leaders to intensify counselling efforts for their congregants to help curb the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in the district, describing the trend as worrying.
Speaking on behalf of the Council Chairperson, Chingolo Ward Councillor Jacob Vinbuzi urged residents to emulate the values of peace, unity, and togetherness that Dr. Kaunda stood for. He also thanked President Hakainde Hichilema for declaring Kenneth Kaunda Day a public holiday in honour of the late statesman.
In a sermon delivered during the commemoration, Pastor Sileta Banda of the Reformed Church of Zambia, speaking on behalf of the Pastors Fellowship, emphasised the importance of living in harmony, showing love to one another regardless of social status, and ensuring that everyone plays their role responsibly for the balance and well-being of the community. He also appealed to the government to reduce bureaucratic procedures in accessing empowerment programmes, noting that lengthy and complex application processes often disadvantage vulnerable groups and make it difficult for them to benefit.
Representing traditional leadership, Mr. Washing Tembo expressed gratitude to the government for ongoing development projects in Nyamphande area and urged citizens to uphold peace and unity as exemplified by Dr. Kaunda.
The event served not only as a remembrance of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda’s legacy but also as a strong call for citizens to uphold the values of unity, peace, responsibility, and service to the nation.