Luanda, Angola, June 21, 2024 – The Angolan government held a significant colloquium in Luanda on June 20, 2024, to honor the 100th birth anniversary of Zambia’s first President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. The event, held at the Diplomatic Academy Venancio de Maura, celebrated Dr. Kaunda’s crucial role in the liberation of Zambia and Southern Africa.
His Excellency Ambassador António Tete, represented by Secretary of State Maria Auxiliadora Fragoso Ramilo, highlighted Dr. Kaunda’s contributions to supporting liberation movements like SWAPO of Namibia and ANC of South Africa, which were pivotal in ending apartheid. Ambassador Tete noted that Dr. Kaunda’s legacy extends beyond Zambia, impacting the entire Southern African region.
Charge d’Affaires at the Zambian Embassy in Angola, Mrs. Roster Mubita Kapaya, emphasized Dr. Kaunda’s belief that Zambia’s liberation was interconnected with the freedom of neighboring countries. She stressed that his vision of a politically free Southern Africa was achieved through the Frontline Movement, a coalition of Southern African leaders committed to ending colonial rule.
Mr. Kaweche Kaunda, representing the Kaunda family, shared personal stories of his father’s dedication to the liberation cause. He called for unity among Zambians, Angolans, and all Africans, reflecting Dr. Kaunda’s commitment to human rights and equality. Mr. Kaunda concluded with his father’s famous prayer advocating love and mutual respect.
The event was attended by distinguished guests, including Dr. Manuel Goncalves, Vice Governor for Political and Social Affairs, H.E. Alice Fatima Pinto de Almeida, Secretary of State for Science, Technology, and Innovation, General Domingos Andre Tchi Kanha, Secretary of State for Former Combatants and Veterans of the Fatherland, and former First Lady of Angola Mrs. Maria da Silvo. Diplomats, senior security and government officials, political party representatives, and Zambians living in Angola also participated.
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