FOLOKO PAYS TRIBUTE TO K.K

STATEMENT BY NOCZ PRESIDENT MR ALFRED FOLOKO ON THE PASSING OF HIS EXCELLENCY DR KENNETH KAUNDA.

On behalf of the National Olympic Committee of Zambia (NOCZ), I extend sincere heartfelt condolences to the Kaunda family and the nation at large on the passing on of first republican President and founding father of the Republic of Zambia Dr. Kenneth Kaunda.

It is with great sadness that we learnt of the passing on of Dr. Kaunda in the afternoon hours of Thursday 17 June 2021.

NOC Zambia President Alfred Foloko (Left) pictured with first republican President Dr. Kenneth Kaunda (Right)

Dr. Kaunda fondly known as KK was a true African Giant who played a major role in the liberation of many African nations in the region of Southern African and across the continent.

I profoundly admired his contribution to the formation of what we now know as the African Union (AU), in particular in leading the efforts of the international community to abolish colonial rule in the southern region and uniting the continent through the AU.

He was known for the commitment he exhibited to see his beloved nation of Zambia develop and conform to international democratic standards.

KK was also known for using sport as a national unifying factor for a young nation like Zambia in her early years. He promoted the development of sports using football (KK 11), as sport instils a sense of belonging, break down barriers and unites communities.

Dr. Kenneth Kaunda passed on at the age of 97.

On behalf of the Olympic Movement in Zambia and my own personal behalf, I extend again my profound condolences to President Kaunda's family, and to the Zambian people at large, at this difficult time. And I wish the people of Zambia and the region courage and fortitude in the time ahead.

Heroes never die! Let’s celebrate his life and remain grateful to him for this great nation we have today.

Our prayer is that God may strengthen his family and close friends in this trying period.

For and on behalf of the NATIONAL OLYMPIC COMMITTEE OF ZAMBIA (NOCZ)

Alfred Foloko

President