Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu’s final resting place has been confirmed as South Africa, following a decision by his family to hold the funeral there. The announcement comes as preparations were underway for a memorial in Lusaka.
Lungu’s remains will be transported to Pretoria, where burial arrangements will take place this weekend. South African dignitaries are expected to attend alongside Zambian officials, marking a significant show of regional respect.
Lungu, who led Zambia from 2015 to 2021, died last month at the age of 63. His passing sparked debates within the country over the funeral venue, with the family advocating for a South African burial citing personal connections and medical considerations.
A state memorial service has also been scheduled in Lusaka, offering Zambians the opportunity to pay their respects ahead of the overseas burial. Arrangements for public viewing and participation will be announced by the Lungu family and government agencies in the coming days.
The decision to bury Lungu in South Africa reflects both the family’s wishes and the deep ties between the veteran leader and Pretoria, where he reportedly received treatment in recent months.
As Zambia prepares for the transnational observance, both nations are coordinating logistics, security, and guest protocol to ensure dignified proceedings and dignitary attendance.
