United Nations mourns the death of H.E. Dr Kenneth Kaunda  

The United Nations in Zambia has received with deep regret and sadness news of the death of Zambia’s First Republican President who was the last surviving founder of the Organisation of African Unity, His Excellency Dr Kenneth Kaunda.

“We join the immediate family and the Government and people of Zambia in mourning the passing of a great statesman and son of Africa. The United Nations notes Dr Kaunda’s contributions to the liberation struggle in Africa that led to political independence in many countries, and his generous support to thousands of refugees escaping conflict in their own land,” said UN Resident Coordinator in Zambia, Dr Coumba Mar Gadio.

“Dr Kaunda was a significant figure in the history of this continent. Among his many legacies, we remember and celebrate his decades-long support to the fight against the HIV and AIDS pandemic at a time when few were willing to speak out publicly. His unwavering and high-level leadership helped break down taboos and stigma, and undoubtedly saved many lives,” added Dr Gadio.

Dr Kaunda served as an ambassador for the Brothers for Life campaign to encourage more men to be tested for HIV, and in 2018 was presented with a UNAIDS Leadership Award for his remarkable contribution.

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For more information, please contact:

Mark Maseko

National Information Officer

United Nations Information Centre (UNIC), Lusaka

P: +260-211-386200;

E: masekom@un.org