Mama Betty is an inspiration - Grillo

Mama Betty is an inspiration - Grillo
By Masuzyo Chakwe
Sat 19 Nov. 2011, 12:30 CAT

MAMA Betty Kaunda is an inspiration to the women of Zambia, says the women's movement. In a congratulatory message to Mama Betty on her 83rd birthday which fell on Thursday, NGOCC board chairperson Beatrice Grillo said the Zambian women celebrate Mama Betty's 83rd birthday with pride.

Grillo said the women's movement recognised Mama Betty's resilience and determination as the bedrock of not just her family but the nation. She said the women's movement felt obliged to celebrate Mama Betty's 83rd birthday because she was an inspiration to the women.

"She is one of the freedom fighters that contributed to the liberation of the country, yet she has remained a humble and down to earth person. She has remained friendly, approachable even at the time she was first lady," she said.

Grillo said Zambian women felt lucky to have such a woman and urged the government to honour her by naming some of the institutions after her.

"We also similarly appeal to the Lusaka City Council to name some of the many nameless streets and roads after women who have greatly contributed to the nation. As we celebrate her contributions in various national endeavours, we salute Mama Betty for her courage and respect for human dignity, Happy 83rd birthday mother of the nation and receive God's abundant blessings," said Grillo.

Mama Betty Mutinke Kaunda was born on November, 17, 1928 at Mpika to Kaweche Banda and Milika Sakala Banda.

She went to school at Mbereshi Girls and also did training at the Mindolo Ecumenical Foundation's Women's programme and worked as a teacher in Mufulira.

In 1964, she married her fellow teacher Kenneth Kaunda of Chinsali, with whom she has seven sons, two daughters and an adopted son.

During Zambia's struggle for independence, she struggled and sacrificed for her family to make ends meet. At the same time, she worked with women folk and men to fight for independence.

Mama Betty, as Zambia's first, first lady from October 1964 to November 1991 is considered the mother of the nation.

She has preferred to contribute quietly, mostly behind the scenes, to greatly support her family and nation and has been matron of many organisations and projects.

Mama Betty is also an example of many people living with diabetes as she has been living with it since 1967.