Lusaka, 19th August 2024 – This morning, the Judiciary held a valedictory session in honour of the former First Lady and Advocate of the Superior Courts of Zambia, Dr. Maureen Kakubo Mwanawasa, describing her as a champion for equal rights and opportunities for women and girls.
In his address during the valedictory session, His Lordship the Hon Chief Justice, Dr. Mumba Malila, SC, remarked that Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa has left a lasting impression on the country and the legal profession. Her dignified and warm demeanour as First Lady inspired many, both within the legal profession and beyond, and she will be remembered as a woman who practiced law with humility and compassion.
“As a lawyer, Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa was a composed and articulate advocate. When she appeared before the courts, she exuded professionalism and upheld the highest ethical standards. Her warmth, kindness, and grace were truly exceptional,” Dr. Malila said.
The Attorney General, Mr. Mulilo Kabesha, SC, highlighted Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa’s exemplary career as a testament to the vital role of women in leadership and public service. He described her as a woman whose passion, hard work, integrity, commitment, and dedication to public service left a lasting legacy in the legal profession and the nation at large.
Speaking at the same event, Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) President, Lungisani Zulu, said that Dr. Mwanawasa was more than just a legal luminary. As Zambia’s First Lady from 2002 to 2008, she transformed the role, using her platform to advocate for social justice, women’s empowerment, and improved healthcare for all Zambians.
He said the former First Lady was a dedicated member of LAZ, whose passion for justice and equality was evident through her involvement in the Women’s Rights Committee. She served as a committed member of the Board of Directors for the National Legal Aid Clinic for Women (NLACW) from 2007 until 2022.
Beyond being a lawyer, loving mother, and extraordinary First Lady, Dr. Mwanawasa addressed many of society’s greatest needs. She was a great humanitarian in her own right, a philanthropist who dedicated her life to uplifting others.
The Judiciary of Zambia conveys its deepest condolences to the bereaved family. Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa died on Tuesday, 13th August 2024, after a short illness. The former First Lady was married to the country’s third President, Levy Mwanawasa, who served from 2002 until his death in 2008.
