Kenneth Kaunda
Kenneth Kaunda: A Leader for Liberation and Unity
Full Name and Common Aliases
Kenneth David Kaunda was a Zambian politician who served as the country's first president from 1964 to 1991.
Birth and Death Dates
Kaunda was born on April 28, 1924, in Chisala Village, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia). He passed away on June 17, 2021, at the age of 97.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Nationality: Zambian
Profession: Politician, Diplomat
Early Life and Background
Kaunda was born to a poor family in Chisala Village. His father, Kaunda Siwale, was a Methodist preacher who later became a government official. Kenneth's mother, Mutembo, was a homemaker who instilled in him the importance of education. He attended primary school in Northern Rhodesia and later moved to the United Kingdom for higher education.
In 1946, Kaunda joined the African National Congress (ANC) while studying at the University of Fort Hare in South Africa. The ANC played a significant role in shaping his political ideology and commitment to African liberation. After completing his education, he returned to Northern Rhodesia and became involved in local politics.
Major Accomplishments
Kaunda's leadership and vision led Zambia to independence from British colonial rule on October 24, 1964. He was instrumental in drafting the country's first constitution and was elected as its first president. Under his presidency, Zambia implemented various social and economic reforms, including:
Establishing a one-party state to unite the Zambian people
Implementing policies to promote Africanization and self-reliance
Encouraging regional cooperation through the Southern African Development Coordination Conference (SADCC)
Providing asylum to liberation movements from neighboring countries
Notable Works or Actions
Some of Kaunda's notable works include:
_"My Fight for Zambia"_ (1972), an autobiography that provides insight into his life and presidency
Advocating for African unity through regional organizations like the Organisation of African Unity (OAU)
Supporting economic development through initiatives such as the Zambezi River ProjectImpact and Legacy
Kenneth Kaunda's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to African liberation, self-reliance, and unity. He played a significant role in shaping Zambia's early years and left a lasting impact on regional politics.
His leadership and policies contributed to Zambia's economic growth, education expansion, and improved healthcare system. Kaunda also supported the liberation movements of neighboring countries, providing asylum to thousands of freedom fighters.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Kaunda is widely quoted for his insightful statements on African unity, self-reliance, and development. His quotes reflect his commitment to a united Africa and provide inspiration to leaders across the continent. Some notable quotes include:
"Africa will be free one day...and we must not be deterred by obstacles."
"I do not believe in the division of humanity into different colors or racial categories."
"The future belongs to those who plan for it."
Kaunda's legacy extends beyond his presidency and continues to inspire leaders and citizens across Africa. His commitment to African liberation, unity, and self-reliance remains a beacon of hope for generations to come.
Quotes by Kenneth Kaunda
People see him as a hero. Not just in Zimbabwe or here in Zambia but across the whole of southern Africa. It’s no good demonising Robert Mugabe.
This great son of the world, Madiba, showed us the way. Whether you are white, black yellow or brown you are all God’s children, come together, work together and God will show you the way.
The drama can only be brought to its climax in one of two ways – through the selective brutality of terrorism or the impartial horrors of war.
I fight AIDS because it’s a killer disease, destroys the human race in all fields.
This great son of the world, Madiba, showed us the way. Whether you are white, black yellow or brown you are all God's children, come together, work together and God will show you the way.
Some people draw a comforting distinction between force and violence. I refuse to cloud the issue by such word-play. The power which establishes a state is violence; the power which maintains it is violence; the power which eventually overthrows it is violence. Call an elephant a rabbit only if it gives you comfort to feel that you are about to be trampled to death by a rabbit.
People see him as a hero. Not just in Zimbabwe or here in Zambia but across the whole of southern Africa. It's no good demonising Robert Mugabe.
Passive resistance is a sport for gentleman (and ladies)-just like the pursuit of war, a heroic enterprise for the ruling classes but a grievous burden on the rest.