In the late hours of yesterday, January 15th, 2024, I learnt about the untimely death of Honourable Lieutenant General Bishop Ronnie Shikapwasha, with shock and deep sorrow.
Honourable General Shikapwasha’s passing is a painful and great loss to the nation of Zambia, Central province, the people of Keembe constituency who he represented in the national assemble of Zambia and indeed the Shikapwasha family.
The late Shikapwasha served in many portfolios in this country, as Air force Commander, Minister of Information, Foreign Affairs and Home Affairs, and a Diplomat among many other national responsibilities.
However, what stands out, in this gallant man of the nation, is his earlier appointment as chief pilot of the first Republican President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. This appointment defined General Shikapwasha’s deep seated loyalty to the government and country.
It is this distinguished loyalty to authority which contributed to his rising in power and stature in the Republic of Zambia in the later years to head three ministries in two different administrations, something which the young generation should emulate.
General Shikapwasha is known to many as a man who had chosen to become a mentor and a source of wisdom, especially to leaders and all those that listened to his wise counsel.
As Central Province and bene Mukuni bana ba Nkaanga we are at a great loss for the invaluable wisdom and availability he made himself regardless the event or how short the notice was. He was there for his community and the nation.
Today, and in the future, Keembe Constituency, cannot talk about development without mentioning the name of Hon. Gen Shikapwasha.
As a man who asked me to considered running for the Constituency while he was still a member of parliament, I owe him a great deal. As a mentor and a standfast fountain of wisdom.
In this every difficult time we are beyond words for the immediate and extended family. He was man of the people, a pillar whose life and wisdom we have just been robbed. We at a great loss.
Hon. Princess Kasune, MP
Central Province Minister and Member of Parliament for Keembe constituency
I appreciate the practical advice you’ve given here.