Maureen Mwanawasa, Zambia’s former First Lady, has died at the age of 61. She passed away late Tuesday after a brief illness at a hospital in Lusaka, according to her family.
Mrs. Mwanawasa was the wife of Zambia’s third President, Levy Mwanawasa, who served from 2002 until his death in 2008. President Hakainde Hichilema described her death as a “deep shock” to the nation.
A trained lawyer, Mrs. Mwanawasa was known for her advocacy in social justice, community development, and public health issues. She co-owned a law firm with her husband before his entry into politics and played an active role in his successful 2001 presidential campaign.
Following her husband’s death, Mrs. Mwanawasa did not pursue the presidency but unsuccessfully ran for mayor of Lusaka in 2016. Her political affiliation at the time of her death was unclear.
Mrs. Mwanawasa was a founding member and former president of the Organisation of African First Ladies Against HIV/AIDS, now known as the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development. Her community work earned her several accolades, including the 2006 International Hope Award from World Vision.
Nevers Sekwila Mumba, leader of the opposition Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), praised her legacy of “hardworking, kindness, compassion, and dedication to our nation.”
President Hichilema called for national unity, urging Zambians to “join her family, and indeed the nation, in prayer” during this time of mourning.
Mrs. Mwanawasa’s passing marks the end of an era in Zambian politics and philanthropy, leaving a legacy of public service and advocacy for social causes.
