AS Zambia prepares to celebrate its 60th independence anniversary in the next ten days, a local author is aiming to instill a sense of national pride and historical understanding in the country’s youth.
39-year-old Ndumayao Nyalazi recently published a book titled “Founding Father of Zambia: Kenneth Kaunda,” a tribute to the country’s first president.
Inspired by the late president’s legacy and a personal passion for Zambian history, Nyalazi embarked on a journey to create a resource that would educate and inspire future generations.
The book, which has been approved by the Ministry of Education for use in upper primary schools, aligns with this year’s independence theme of “Honoring Heritage and Embracing the Future.”
Nyalazi’s dedication to this project was evident in her determination to see it through, even when faced with financial challenges.
To fund the publication of her book, she made the bold decision to sell her car, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to sharing Zambia’s rich history.
“When you discover purpose, you will do all it takes to achieve it, regardless of the price you have to pay,” Nyalazi said.
Through her book, Nyalazi hopes to impart the values of unity, peace, and national pride that were central to Kaunda’s leadership.
By understanding the sacrifices made by previous generations, she believes that young Zambians will appreciate the freedoms they enjoy today and be inspired to contribute positively to their country’s future.
“Once our children learn the struggles before independence, they will appreciate simple things they take for granted,” Nyalazi said.
Nyalazi, a self-proclaimed “First Lady” whose dream was to venture into politics, refocused her vision and developed her passion for Zambia’s history and heritage culminating in her book project.
Her work aims to pass on the values of unity, peace, and national pride, echoing Kaunda’s mantra of “One Zambia, One Nation.”
“We cannot embrace or shape the future without nurturing them with the past (heritage),” she said. “The baton needs to be passed on to future leaders so they should never sell out Zambia in the future.”
By Moses Makwaya
Kalemba October 14, 2024
