His Excellency the President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi has declared Seven days mourning period in honour of the late Kenneth Kaunda.
“I have learnt of the demise of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, the founding father of the Republic of Zambia, a great statesman, and African leader. Dr. Kaunda was Botswanaβs best friend and together with the likes of Sir Seretse Khama, Mwalimu Julius Nyerere championed the liberation and independence of our region. Former President Kaundaβs death is a loss to his compatriots in Zambia, their friends in Botswana, and the continent of Africa. We send our condolences to the people of Zambia during this trying time.In honour of this great son of the soil, I have declared a seven-day mourning period in Botswana during which all flags shall fly at half-mast. May his great soul rest in peace.” Masisi mourned.
Zambiaβs Former President Kenneth Kaunda, was this week reported hospitalized receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness at a military hospital in the capital Lusaka.
Affectionately known as KK, Kenneth David Kaunda was a Zambian politician who served as the first President of Zambia from 1964 to 1991. He was at the forefront of the struggle for independence from British rule. Dissatisfied with Harry Nkumbula’s leadership of the Northern Rhodesian African National Congress, he broke away and founded the Zambian African National Congress, later becoming the head of the United National Independence Party (UNIP). He was the first President of the independent Zambia.
Botswana enjoyed good diplomatic relations with Zambia for many years. From the early years of independence, Botswana has always been good friends with Zambia, the good relations went on through the leadership of Sir Ketumile Masire. To cement their relations, Botswana and Zambia jointly built Kazungula bridge to connect the two countries. The bridge, which it’s planning began during Former President His Excellency Dr. Festus Mogae’s tenure got officially opened recently.
