The Zambia-Chinese Association has described Kaweche Kaunda’s death as a significant loss to the long-standing friendship between Zambia and China, citing his role in strengthening ties between the two countries.
Kaweche, son of late first Republican President Kenneth Kaunda, died last week in Ndola, Copperbelt Province.
Speaking shortly after a memorial service in his honour at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka, Zambia–Chinese Association Executive President Wu Ming said Kaweche’s passing was a sorrowful moment for both Zambia and China, according to Mbili Media.
Ming said Kaweche Kaunda had continued his father’s legacy by contributing to stronger bilateral ties between Zambia and China, a relationship dating back to the early years of Zambia’s independence.
“His death is a great loss not only to the Kaunda family but also to Zambia and the enduring friendship with the people of China. We shall greatly miss him,” he said.
Zambia and China established diplomatic relations in 1964, with cooperation anchored on infrastructure development, trade, and mutual support.
One of the most enduring symbols of the partnership is the TAZARA Railway, built in the 1970s with Chinese support under President Kaunda’s leadership. The railway remains a testament to solidarity between the two nations during Southern Africa’s liberation struggles.
In recent years, China has remained one of Zambia’s key development partners, with investments in mining, energy, manufacturing, and infrastructure.
The memorial service was attended by senior government officials, church leaders, diplomats, political figures, and members of the Zambia-Chinese Association.
Francis Chipalo