Melo News | Friday, August 16, 2024 | Lusaka
President Hakainde Hichilema has announced an official state funeral for former First Lady Maureen Mwanawasa, who passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024.
In a gesture of respect and remembrance, President Hichilema has designated August 19, 2024, as a national day of mourning to honor Dr. Mwanawasa’s significant contributions during her tenure as First Lady from 2002 to 2008.
Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa confirmed that the late Dr. Mwanawasa will be laid to rest at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka on the same day. The official funeral proceedings will commence with a church service at the Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross at 10:00 hours.
Mr. Kangwa further urged the public to observe the national mourning period from 06:00 to 18:00 hours by suspending all entertainment activities on radio and television, and ensuring that flags are flown at half-mast.
He also emphasized the importance of adhering to public health guidelines issued by the Ministry of Health for those planning to attend the funeral, in order to mitigate the risk of disease transmission.
