Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has paid tribute to former Zambian President Edgar Chagwa Lungu, who passed away on Thursday, June 5, 2025, describing him as a “dear friend and brother” and a leader of “humility, wisdom, and unwavering faith.”

In a heartfelt message shared on X on Friday, May 6, 2025, Uhuru expressed his sorrow at the death of the former Zambian head of state, whose tenure ran from 2015 to 2021.

Lungu, who led Zambia during a period marked by economic challenges and political contestation, was remembered by Uhuru for his commitment to national unity and regional cooperation.

“It is with deep sorrow and profound sadness that I have learned of the passing of my dear friend and brother, H.E. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, former President of the Republic of Zambia,” Uhuru wrote.

“President Lungu was not only a distinguished statesman who served his country with dedication and honor but also a man of humility, wisdom, and unwavering faith. His commitment to the prosperity and unity of Zambia was evident throughout his presidency, and his calm, measured leadership will be remembered by all who knew and worked with him.”

Uhuru, who served as Kenya’s fourth president from 2013 to 2022, recalled his interactions with Lungu during the latter’s visits to Kenya, noting their shared conversations on Africa’s future, youth empowerment, and regional integration.

“I mourn a trusted friend and fondly recall his visits to Kenya and the moments we shared discussing the future of our continent, the role of youth, and the importance of building bridges across our nations. President Lungu carried with him a quiet strength and a genuine desire to see Africa thrive in peace and dignity.”

Uhuru extended his condolences to Lungu’s widow, Esther Lungu, their children, and the Zambian people, urging them to find solace in the legacy Lungu leaves behind.

“My thoughts and prayers are with his beloved wife, Mama Esther Lungu, their children, and the people of Zambia during this difficult time. May they find comfort in the legacy he leaves behind, a legacy of service, humility, and statesmanship.”

“May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

Lungu’s death marks the end of an era in Zambia’s political history, where he played a pivotal role as a transitional leader following the death of President Michael Sata. His presidency saw infrastructural expansion and economic partnerships, though it was also shaped by rising debt and internal political pressure.

As messages of condolence continue to pour in from across the continent, Kenyatta’s tribute stands as a reminder of the close personal and political ties that often define African leadership beyond borders.

Lungu’s death

Lungu died at the age of 68 on Thursday, May 5, 2025.

Lungu’s party, Patriotic Front (PF), said the former Zambian president was receiving specialised treatment in South Africa for an undisclosed illness at the time of his death.

His daughter, Tasila Lungu, confirmed his death in a brief video message, stating that the former president, who had been receiving medical care in recent weeks, passed away early Thursday morning at a clinic in Pretoria, South Africa, at 06:00 local time.

“In this time of sorrow, we turn to the enduring principle of ‘One Zambia, One Nation’ that shaped his leadership,” she said, her voice heavy with emotion.

While no details were provided about his illness, it is known that he had a history of health issues; a decade earlier, he underwent surgery overseas to treat a narrowed oesophagus.

In his tribute, President Hakainde Hichilema urged the nation to respond with unity, dignity, and compassion.

“Let us rise above political lines and personal differences to pay tribute to a man who once led our nation,” he said.

The deceased led Zambia for six years from 2015, losing the 2021 election to the current President Hakainde Hichilema by a large margin.

Lungu first ascended to the presidency in January 2015 after winning a snap election called following President Michael Sata’s death in office. He went on to secure a full five-year term in 2016 after narrowly winning the vote.