Former Zambia first lady Betty Kaunda dies at 83

Betty Kaunda (pictured), the wife of the first President of independent Zambia, Kenneth Kaunda, passed away last evening in Zimbabwe where she had gone to visit her daughter.

Mrs. Betty Kaunda was born on November, 17, 1928 at Mpika to Kaweche Banda and Milika Sakala Banda.

Ex-president Kenneth Kaunda, and Betty Banda were married in 1946.

Mrs. Kaunda, was first lady of Zambia from October 1964 to November 1991.

She preferred to contribute quietly, mostly behind the scenes, to greatly support her family and nation and had been matron of many organizations and projects. She was considered by, “the mother of the nation”.

Mourning ceremonies are being planned to celebrate her memory.