Zimbabwe’s Vice President Pays Condolence Visit to Zambia on Behalf of President Mnangagwa
By Chiyedzo Josiah Dimbo
Lusaka, Zambia — In a powerful display of regional solidarity and shared history, the Vice President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Dr. Constantino Chiwenga (Rtd General), paid a solemn courtesy visit to Zambia to convey official condolences on behalf of His Excellency President Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa following the passing of Zambia’s sixth Republican President His Excellency Edgar Chagwa Lungu
The condolence call was more than a diplomatic gesture—it was a reaffirmation of the deep-rooted historical, political, and cultural ties between Zimbabwe and Zambia, forged over decades of shared struggle, kinship, and pan-African values.
A Tribute to a Statesman and Unifier
Speaking on behalf of President Mnangagwa, Vice President Dr. Chiwenga described the late Zambian leader as “a unifier and a man of integrity who believed in peace and regional cohesion.”
“We are one people. Our nations are not just neighbors—we are brothers. At one point in our shared history, we were one: Zimbabwe was Southern Rhodesia and Zambia was Northern Rhodesia. That bond can never be broken,”
said Vice President Dr. Chiwenga, emotionally acknowledging the deep connection between the two nations.
This heartfelt tribute underscored the central message: that the memory of the late President will not only live on in Zambia but also in Zimbabwe and across the entire SADC region.
A Call for Youth to Preserve History and Peace
In response, His Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema received the Zimbabwean delegation with warmth and gratitude. Reflecting on the themes of unity and legacy, President Hichilema used the opportunity to challenge the youth of both nations:
“Let us never forget where we came from. Our forebears built a bridge of brotherhood and cooperation. We must encourage our young people to honor that history and deepen it. We must remain resolute in promoting peace, inclusivity, and national harmony among all our citizens.”
His remarks resonated with a forward-looking spirit—one that seeks to ensure that shared history is not only remembered but actively celebrated and built upon.
A Shared Legacy, A Common Future
Zimbabwe and Zambia’s destinies have long been intertwined—geographically, historically, and politically. From the Federation of Rhodesia and Nyasaland to the joint operations during liberation struggles, both nations have stood side by side in pursuit of freedom, development, and sovereignty.
Today, as both countries navigate new challenges in the modern era, the commitment to unity, regional peace, and mutual support remains unshaken.
This condolence visit by Vice President Chiwenga is not only a symbol of diplomatic respect—it is a reaffirmation that the ties between Zambia and Zimbabwe are not buried in the past but are alive, evolving, and central to the future of southern Africa.
Closing Reflection
As the region mourns a statesman, it also finds strength in solidarity. The bond between Zimbabwe and Zambia serves as a living reminder of what it means to be “one people in two nations.”
May the soul of the late President rest in eternal peace—and may the friendship between Zimbabwe and Zambia continue to thrive in honor of his legacy.
