Q FM Africa's Modern Radio
ZANIS reports that speaking during the requiem mass at the cathedral of the child Jesus pop square in Lusaka today, Mrs. Nalumango paid glowing tribute to Mr. Chikwanda for his service to diligently serve the nation as he was ready to serve as and when called upon.
Ms Nalumango said Mr. Chikwanda who was also a veteran politician, liberated the country through his hard work, adding that the people of Zambia are today enjoying the peace and freedom that freedom fighters fought and the former finance minister was one of them.
Ms Nalumango noted that government received the death of Mr Chikwanda with sadness adding that it is a big loose to government and the country as a whole.
The vice president stated that Mr. Chikwanda accomplished a lot of things from both his political and private life therefore young people should emulate his life if they are to contribute to the economic development of the country.
She noted that Mr. Chikwanda exhibited professionalism when he served in various senior government officials and the state appreciates his commitment greatly.
Ms Nalumango intimated that government recognizes the immense contributions Mr. Chikwanda played both politically and economically.
And, family representative Bwalya Ng’andu, gave life history stating that Mr. Chikwanda was expelled whilst at Munali secondary school because of his early political life and was sent back to Kasama to contain him.
He said Mr. Chikwanda served under four presidents and was among the youngest and oldest ministers of finance further revealing that Mr. Chikwanda’s life revolved around business and politics as his company Apollo built the cathedral of the child Jesus where his requiem mass has been held.
And, cathedral of the child Jesus priest in charge fr. timothy lubunda, who celebrated mass, said Mr. Chikwanda made great contributions to the church hence being celebrated stating that the late was known in various circles as a giant in the political world, business guru in the business world and an open man in the civil society world.
Mr. Chikwanda, who was born on 24th December 1938 and died on Tuesday 3rd may, is survived by his wife of 51 years Margaret, four children and 14 grandchildren.
Hordes of people turned up to pay their last respect among them former president Edgar Lungu with his wife Esther, cabinet ministers, parliamentarians and former ministers.
Mr. Chikwanda has been put to rest at leopards hill memorial park.