President Hichilema and the Nation Pay Tribute to late Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV

President Hakainde Hichilema today joined thousands of mourners at Ephendukeni Palace in Chipata District to pay last respects to Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV of the Ngoni people.

Speaking during the funeral service, President Hichilema said Chief Mpezeni served the Ngoni people with distinction and wisdom for 40 years.

“He served with six presidents before me. I’m the seventh President. Ngwenyama worked with and served this country ,not just the Ngoni people or Eastern Province. That means a lot.

“So if you are talking about experience, he had it. Presidents are not always easy to work with. But he found a way of doing it because of the common interest, service to the country. That’s important for us who are alive to emulate,” President Hichilema said.

The President added that: “Ngwenyama carried the authority of a King but possessed the heart of a servant.”

“He served with humility. Nkhosi Yamakhosi was a true patriot who placed country, people and culture above himself. More importantly, he espoused and championed unity in our country. We are a country of about 73 ethnic groups but Ngwenyama recognised all of us.

“He understood that each one of those people own this country equally,” said President Hichilema.

Chipata Diocese Bishop George Lungu described the late Paramount Chief as a devoted leader who fostered unity and love among his people. He urged the successor to carry forward this legacy of harmony.

Speaking on behalf of the Ngoni Royal Establishment, Chief Mnukwa hailed Paramount Chief Mpezeni IV as a symbol of affection and cohesion within the community. Chief Mnukwa assured mourners that there is no leadership vacuum in the royal establishment and that a successor will be appointed in due course.

The funeral drew more than 90 traditional leaders from Zambia and abroad, underscoring the Paramount Chief’s influence and stature across the region.