It is with deep sorrow that we report the death of former First Lady Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa. She passed away on Tuesday, August 13, 2024, at the age of 61. Her death was confirmed by family members who shared that she had been experiencing severe chest pain, known as angina, which led to her hospitalization at Maina Soko Medical Centre.
Dr. Mwanawasa was born on April 28, 1963, and was the wife of Zambia’s third President, Dr. Levy Mwanawasa, serving as First Lady from 2002 to 2008. Following the death of her husband in 2008, she continued to make significant contributions to various causes.
A respected lawyer, Dr. Mwanawasa was an active member of the Association of Women Lawyers in the United Kingdom and served on several prominent boards. She was a council member of the Law Association of Zambia Women’s Rights Committee, Vice Chairperson of the Habitat for Humanity, Zambia Board, and Patron of the Breakthrough Cancer Trust and the Child Care & Adoption Society of Zambia.
As First Lady, she was a prominent advocate for women’s and children’s health, particularly in the fight against cervical cancer. Her efforts extended to mobilizing First Ladies across Africa to support causes related to girl children and cancer prevention.
The Levy Patrick Mwanawasa Foundation, chaired by Dr. Moses Banda, initially announced her hospitalization, expressing hope for her recovery. Unfortunately, her condition deteriorated, leading to her passing.
She is survived by her four children, including Chipokota Mwanawasa, a State House official and deputy head of the Presidential Delivery Unit.
Dr. Maureen Mwanawasa will be remembered for her dedication to public service and her advocacy for critical health issues. Her legacy lives on through the numerous causes she championed and the positive impact she had on Zambia.
May Her Soul Rest in Eternal Peace.
