PHILIP CHISALU
Lusaka
FORMER presidential doctor Chishimba Lumbwe has been described as a mentor; loving; and visionary.
Major-General Dr Lumbwe served as physician for former Presidents Kenneth Kaunda, Patrick Mwanawasa and partly Rupiah Banda.
Dr Lumbwe, who joined Zambia Army in 1977, also authored a number of medical and other-related articles.Family and friends gathered yesterday at Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross to bid farewell to Maj-Gen Dr Lumbwe, who died on Wednesday last week.
The fallen soldier, who was accorded full military honours in recognition of his distinguished service to the defence force and to the nation, was laid to rest at Leopards Hill Memorial Park in Lusaka.
His burial was preceded by a valedictory service at University of Zambia, Ridgeway Campus.Ministry of Defence Permanent Secretary Maambo Haamaundu represented Government at the church service while Zambia Army Commander Lieutenant-General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele led his troops.
In a tribute, Dr Lumbwe’s son, Chansa, described him as an extraordinary individual who touched many lives.
He said his father was a mentor, life coach, marriage counsellor and a person who many turned to whenever they faced challenges.
Chansa said the legacy his father leaves of service with humility and love is unshakable.
“If there was ever a crisis, dad was the ‘calm in the storm’. If there was a problem that needed solving, we always called dad.”
Diabetic Society, an organisation he helped to establish and served as president and patron for, praised him for his commitment to the advancement of quality health in the country.
“Today [yesterday], we mourn not only a leader but a pillar of strength, wisdom and compassion,” society representative Brown Kamanga said.
In a homily, Geoffrey Banda encouraged the gathering to make peace with God and live a life worth emulating.
Reverend Father Banda said the choices that one makes while on earth decide where they will be after death, with an encouragement to Dr Lumbwe’s family to remain strong during the trying moment.
