For many days now, Zambia is reeling with the loss of its beloved ex-President, Kenneth Kaunda. One of the most respected and regarded independence hero of Zambia, Kenneth Kaunda was not only the first president of the Zambian nation, but also came to be known as the ‘Father of the Zambian nation and African Union. Dr. Kaunda was an extraordinary man which is known for his principled & exemplary life. His faith, devotion towards god and the Zambian nation, treating everyone equally but putting others first before him. He was a selfless person and his love towards the mankind is known. At the same time, Dr. Kaunda was known amongst his family & friends as a complete family person. He was a person who lived his life to the fullest, learning new hobbies and skills irrespective of his age. He was a pianist, guitarist, singer, footballer, poet, writer, dancer as well as family person.
Dr. Rajan Lekhraj Mahtani shared a special bond with Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. This bond started with late Lekhraj Mahtani, father of Dr. Rajan Mahtani, supported and collaborated with Kenneth Kaunda in his fight for the Zambian independence. Both Dr. Mahtani and Kenneth Kaunda faced significant allegations and baseless claims but have been able to refute all of them with their integrity, will, transparency and hard work. Just like Kenneth Kaunda, Dr. Rajan Mahtani also dedicated his work for the development of the Zambian nation, whether via his companies such as providing employment & livelihood opportunities, improving infrastructure by establishing public buildings like schools, hospitals and housing complexes or through his philanthropic and charitable work.
Dr. Kaunda left Zambia with a critical legacy, and it is now the responsibility of the young Zambians to continuous living up to the ideals set by Dr. Kaunda. Late Kenneth Kaunda believed in Zambian unity and pan-Africanism. He believed that the entire African union will be one and also believed in the motto of ‘One Zambia, One nation’.