Zambia join other countries in commemorating the Africa freedom day, which falls on May 25. Unfortunately, it came at a time when our comrades across our southern border in South Africa where busy negating the very essence we are commemorating.
Before I go any further, I would like to tell these comrades purpetrating xenophobia in South Africa that they should not think that they are clever after we helped them get that freedom.
How can they turn around and stab us in the back like that. I would like to agree with Dr Mwanawasa that a time would come when they would need our help!
Although there are many criticisms about this day, all went well here in Zambia especially in Lusaka, where the President laid a wreath at the freedom statue and hosted many guests at State House for a banquet.
Dr Mwanawasa also honoured some Zambians for their contribution to the struggle for freedom and many other fields.
About the comments, some critics have indicated that Africa need to be gain economic freedom now because the freedom being talked about was merely driving away the colonialists.
They say Africa is still engulfed in disease, wars, poverty, hunger, corruption, avarice and other invectives.
The commemoration at State House on May 25 was characterised by what some people could like to call pomp and splendor.
There were different artists performing, singers, clowns, dancers and oh oh oh!!, I almost forgot The President, The First Lady, Dr Kenneth Kaunda and Myself.
Members of the diplomatic corps, politicians, traditional leaders, the media ordinary citizens like you and me.
I can simply say that the occassion was witnessed by people from different walks of life.
This year's programme seem to have been extremely trimmed because it hardly lasted two hours, unlike previous ceremonies when we spent over fours hours at State House.
I think the programme was rushed because the President had to take off for Japan where he is expected for the Tokyo, Internatinal Conference on Africa's Development (TICAD). But However, it was a well thought and arranged programme.
Although the programme was rushed, it must rejuvenate our resolve and efforts in Africa's total liberation. The fight must continue. Some of our leaders in Africa have managed to carry the torch of our fore fathers forward.
Aluta continua (the struggle continues)!
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