President Hichilema hails Kamanga’s legacy

President Hakainde Hichilema has described late First Republican Vice President Reuben Kamanga as a gallant son of Zambia whose life was closely connected to the country’s liberation struggle and national unity. President Hichilema said Mr Kamanga’s leadership was instrumental in…

President Hakainde Hichilema has described late First Republican Vice President Reuben Kamanga as a gallant son of Zambia whose life was closely connected to the country’s liberation struggle and national unity.

President Hichilema said Mr Kamanga’s leadership was instrumental in spearheading Zambia’s first National Development Plan, which laid the foundation for post-independence industrial growth.

The President has also reaffirmed his commitment to honouring freedom fighters, disclosing that a policy framework is being developed while a dedicated office has already been established to support veterans of the liberation struggle.

The Head of State said this in a speech read for him by Minister of Green Economy and Environment Gilbert Siame during a church service held to mark the 30th memorial anniversary of the late First Vice President.

“Thirty years after his passing, Honourable Kamanga’s legacy cannot be wished away. His example of patriotism and public service continues to inspire generations,” President Hichilema said.

He further expressed government’s gratitude to the Kamanga family for preserving his legacy and sharing it with the nation.

Speaking at the same event, former Vice President Inonge Wina noted that Mr Kamanga and the majority of the country’s founding leaders were young people when they dedicated themselves to liberating and industrialising Zambia.

Mrs Wina urged young people to emulate the spirit of patriotism and nationalism demonstrated by Mr Kamanga and other founding leaders in order to build on their legacy and contribute to the country’s development.

“We need to build on what others started. Doctor Kaunda put up a lot of industries. As a country, we were not importing things like tyres. We were also making radios. I want everyone to know that this country was built on blood and sweat,” Mrs Wina said.

Meanwhile, former Minister in the UNIP administration Baltis Kapulu has called on historians to safeguard the legacy of Mr Kamanga and other founding fathers, warning that the nation risks losing vital historical information if it is not properly documented.

Mr Kapulu described the late First Vice President as a humble statesman who remained committed to serving the country despite political differences and urged current leaders to emulate his values.

“He promised to remain a loyal citizen and serve wherever the President placed him. That is the man we are celebrating,” Mr Kapulu said.

And Mr Kamanga’s son, Madalitso Kamanga, expressed gratitude to government for legal reforms aimed at securing the welfare of surviving spouses of former Vice Presidents.