North-Western mourns Kenneth Kaunda
SCORES Solwezi residents yesterday lined up along the airport road as well as the Independence Avenue in paying their last respects to the late First Republican President Dr David Kaunda.
The residents thronged the streets as early 06:00 hours waiting for the arrival of the body whose plane landed at Solwezi airport around 09:30 hours.
Upon landing, the casket was driven from the airport, joining the Independence Avenue via Kyawama market roundabout.
And business came to standstill as the casket was driven through the Central Business District (CBD) as people left their businesses and offices and lined up on the Independence Avenue from Kyawama market up to Mema House where the junction to the stadium is.
And gracing the event, Vice President Inonge
Wina eulogised Dr Kaunda for laying a firm foundation for the country which she said has over the years ensured that the country remains the beacon of peace in the region and the continent at large.
Ms Wina said the spirit of oneness, unity and peace in the North-Western Province and the country as a whole should be the battle cry for every Zambian. She said Dr Kaunda supported the independence struggle in southern Africa as he believed that Zambia was not independent until the rest of the region was free from colonial rule.
"It was in this regard that Dr Kaunda headed and coordinated the accommodation of refugees by creating the Maheba refugee camp in Kalumbila in 1971 which is the largest refugee camp in Zambia," said Ms Wina.
She also recalled the time Dr Kaunda spent under restriction from the colonial masters in Kabompo during the liberation struggle.
And Chief Ishima of Zambezi who spoke on behalf of other chiefs urged politicians to emulate the life of Dr Kaunda so that Zambia remains a united country.
He said Dr Kaunda managed to unite the 72 tribes across the country with love and unity under the motto “one Zambia one nation.”
And Colonel Panji Kaunda who spoke on behalf of the Kaunda family asked political leaders to
stop tribal language.
He also asked young people to stop being used as tools of violence.
Meanwhile, North-Western Province Permanent Secretary Willies Mangimela said the area has fond memories of Dr Kaunda for his pragmatic efforts for the country’s independence.
"As a province we are enjoying the benefits of independence because of his sacrifice together with other freedom fighters," Mr Mangimela said.