The Government of the Republic of Zambia has announced the official funeral programme for the late former Vice President Dr Guy Lindsay Scott, including the declaration of five days of National Mourning in his honour.
According to a statement issued by Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa, the National Mourning period will run from Thursday, July 16, 2026, to Monday, July 20, 2026, the day Dr Scott will be laid to rest at the Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka.
The announcement follows President Hakainde Hichilema’s decision to accord the late former Vice President a State Funeral in recognition of his distinguished contribution to Zambia through decades of public service and political leadership.
Government said the State Funeral is being held in honour of Dr Scott’s exemplary service to the nation, having served as Vice President of Zambia from 2011 to 2014 before becoming Acting President following the death of President Michael Sata in October 2014.
As part of the official funeral programme, a State Funeral Church Service will be held on Monday, July 20, 2026, at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, beginning at 10:00 hours. Following the church service, the late statesman will be buried at Leopards Hill Memorial Park.
Government has also informed members of the public that funeral gathering for Dr Scott will be held at Belvedere Lodge, located along Leopards Hill Road in Kabulonga, Lusaka, where mourners will have an opportunity to pay their respects.
During the five-day National Mourning period, the Government has directed that all national flags across the country fly at half-mast between 06:00 hours and 18:00 hours as a mark of respect for the late former Vice President.
Dr Guy Scott died on Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the age of 82 after an illness. He served Zambia in several key leadership positions, including as Minister of Agriculture, Vice President, and Acting President, becoming one of the country’s most prominent political figures.
His leadership during Zambia’s constitutional transition following President Michael Sata’s death earned him recognition both locally and internationally for safeguarding constitutional order and ensuring a peaceful transfer of power.
The declaration of National Mourning reflects the nation’s appreciation of Dr Scott’s lifelong commitment to public service, democracy and national development.
Government has encouraged Zambians from all walks of life to join in honouring the memory of the late former Vice President as the country prepares to bid farewell to one of its distinguished statesmen.
