The Organic Producers and Processors Association of Zambia (OPPAZ) is saddened by the death of Dr Kenneth David Kaunda, First President of the Republic of Zambia. We convey our sincere condolences to the Government, the people of Zambia and the family of Dr Kaunda.
Dr, Kenneth David Kaunda leaves behind a legacy of love for humanity and the environment. We shall remember him as the champion of sustainable agriculture in Zambia and Africa having been the Patron of Organic Producer s and Processors Association of Zambia, a responsibility which saw him address the Second African Organic Conference at Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka on 5th May 2012. He said Organic agriculture is extremely important in human life. The food we eat today is grown with real love and care for human life. And the more than 140 delegates and organic agriculture champions present expressed our sincere appreciation of the support and attendance of Kenneth David Kaunda, OPPAZ Patron and First Republican President of Zambia.
Dr Kaunda sobbed and led a fight against unsustainable land-use practices and their concomitants of land degradation, deforestation and climate change as humanity searches for energy, food and fibre. As early as 1970, he flew Northern Province chiefs over their land to see for themselves how slash-and-burn (citemene) farming was causing deforestation and could lead to low rainfall over time.
He was humble, a good learner and a listener. I visited him in the Office of the First President in 2009. Amazed by my explanation on how to grow and keep livestock without use of synthetic chemicals, he waved his white handkerchief and exclaimed, young man how and where did you learn all this which I do not know despite all my years as President of Zambia! Kenneth Kaunda was one amongst very few past and present Heads of State to walk their talk.
Father of the nation is no more. The Father of organic is gone. The white handkerchief is still.
KK, you have run your race. May your soul rest in everlasting peace.
Issued by OPPAZ and Partners
Munshimbwe Chitalu,
National Coordinator, Organic Producers & Processors Association of Zambia,
General Secretary, African Organic Network
Mobile: 0955753485/0976636614
Charles K Mubanga
Continental Secretary, Inter-continental Network of Organic Farmers’ Organisations
Mobile: 0969 926941
