A state memorial service for Zambia’s first president, Kenneth Kaunda, has been held with a 21-gun salute and a flypast by the air force. Mr. Kaunda died last month, aged 97, after suffering from pneumonia.
He was one of the last of a generation of African leaders who fought colonial rule, and became president after Zambia gained its independence in 1964. The service was held at a stadium in the capital, Lusaka, where foreign dignitaries paid tributes.
After his death, the government declared three weeks of national mourning, with all forms of entertainment suspended.
His body was also taken around the country for members of the public to pay their last respect.
Zambia’s President Edgar Lungu has declared public holidays for the days of the memorial and the funeral – which will be held in private on Wednesday.
