Freedom Won, Nation Still Building

Saunders Reflects on Zambia’s Independence Journey, Calls for Unity, Respect and Stronger Foundations

By Francis Maingaila

Lusaka, Zambia24 — 7-7-2026 - Political activist Dante Saunders says Zambia’s attainment of independence was a major victory, but the country still has a long journey ahead to build stronger economic foundations and preserve the values that shaped the liberation struggle.

In his Unity and Heroes Day message, Saunders thanked God for protecting Zambia from civil conflict since independence, saying the country had been fortunate to maintain peace despite challenges faced over the years.

Saunders paid tribute to Zambia’s freedom fighters, including, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda, Simon Kapwepwe, Mainza Chona, Harry Mwaanga Nkumbula and Nalumino Mundia, saying their courage and sacrifices helped secure the nation’s independence.

He said many ordinary Zambians also played a role in the struggle for freedom, adding that the contributions of those who fought against colonial rule should never be forgotten.

Saunders recalled that, as a young person during the independence struggle, he was inspired by nationalist leaders such as Ben Mwanga and joined others in supporting the call for self-rule. He said his generation was prepared to stand behind the liberation movement and contribute to the fight for independence.

He said Zambia’s struggle was part of a wider continental effort, with many African countries also fighting against colonial rule and seeking self-determination.

Reflecting on the post-independence period, Saunders said Zambia achieved political freedom and equality but failed to establish a sufficiently strong economic foundation to match its political independence.

He said the focus after independence went beyond freedom from colonial rule and included the desire for equal opportunities and participation in national life. However, Saunders argued that greater attention should have been given to building stronger control of industries and securing long-term economic independence.

He said the country’s decision to nationalise industries was made with the intention of empowering Zambians, but argued that some of the consequences affected investment and economic growth.

Saunders said Zambia’s agricultural sector was once strong, with the country regarded as one of Africa’s breadbaskets. He said farming institutions at the time served communities effectively and that the country did not experience the levels of financial mismanagement seen in some instances today.

He said Zambia’s political history had provided important lessons, particularly after the country moved from a multi-party democracy to a one-party state before eventually returning to multi-party politics.

Saunders said the transition back to multi-party democracy showed that the country was capable of learning from its experiences and strengthening its democratic institutions.

Having witnessed several governments since independence, Saunders said successive administrations had made contributions to national development, but many opportunities to build lasting foundations were missed.

He argued that Zambia’s Constitution still requires attention, saying it appears to serve governments more than ordinary citizens. Saunders said continued reforms are necessary to ensure national institutions better protect the interests of the people.

According to Saunders, one of the greatest achievements of democracy is that citizens now understand the power of the ballot and can change governments that fail to honour their manifestos.

He said Zambians are becoming more politically aware and are increasingly able to distinguish genuine leadership from empty promises, adding that citizens are demanding greater accountability from those in power.

Saunders urged young people to respect elderly citizens, whether they participated in the liberation struggle or not, saying older people deserve dignity and appreciation for their contribution to building the nation.

He condemned violence and abuse against elderly people, including accusations of witchcraft, saying such actions have no place in a society that values humanity and respect.

Saunders said elders should be honoured while they are still alive rather than only being praised at funerals, urging families and communities to show love, gratitude and respect to parents, grandparents and great-grandparents.

He said Zambia has travelled a long way since independence but still has a long journey ahead, calling on citizens to maintain peace, unity and mutual respect as the country continues building its future.

Saunders expressed hope that Zambia would continue moving forward by protecting democracy, strengthening institutions and holding leaders accountable, saying this would honour the sacrifices of the country’s heroes and help build the prosperous nation they envisioned.