Betty Kaunda facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Betty Kaunda
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Kaunda in 1975
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| 1st First Lady of Zambia | |
| In role 24 October 1964 – 2 November 1991 |
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| President | Kenneth Kaunda |
| Preceded by | Position created |
| Succeeded by | Vera Tembo |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Beatrice Kaweche Banda
17 November 1928 Chinsali, Northern Rhodesia (now Zambia) |
| Died | 18 September 2012 (aged 83) Harare, Zimbabwe |
| Spouse | |
| Children | 8; including Tilyenji |
Beatrice "Betty" Kaunda (born Beatrice Kaweche Banda; 17 November 1928 – 18 September 2012) was an important figure in Zambian history. She was an educator and the very first First Lady of Zambia. She held this role from 1964 to 1991. Betty Kaunda was married to Kenneth Kaunda, who became Zambia's first president. People in Zambia often called her Mama Betty Kaunda or the "Mother of Zambia."
As First Lady, she traveled a lot for diplomatic visits. She also supported many organizations. Many people noticed that she lived a very simple life. She even wrote a book about her life in 1969. Betty Kaunda was involved in many good causes. She received an award for her work promoting peace.
Betty Kaunda's Early Life
Betty Kaunda was born on 17 November 1928. Her parents were Kaweche Banda and Milika Sakala Banda. She was born in a place called Mpika. Betty went to school at Mbereshi Girls. Later, she trained at the Mindolo Ecumenical Foundation. She then worked as a teacher in Mufulira.
She married Kenneth Kaunda in 1946. Kenneth was very active in the movement to make Zambia an independent country. He later became Zambia's first President. Kenneth Kaunda often said that Betty was his greatest strength. She took care of their children when he was away. When the colonial government put Kenneth in jail, Betty worked hard to feed her family. She faced many challenges but always stayed strong. She said that letters from her husband helped her feel strong. He told her to stay in their home in Chilenje.
Betty Kaunda: First Lady of Zambia
Betty Kaunda served as the First Lady of Zambia from October 1964 to November 1991. In this role, she joined many diplomatic trips. She also became a patron for various groups. Observers noted that she lived a very humble life. She did not let the luxuries of her position change her. In 1969, she published her autobiography. She wrote it with Stephen A. Mpashi.
Betty Kaunda often wore traditional Zambian outfits. She encouraged other women to dress modestly. She also advised young women to value Zambian culture. She believed in keeping African traditions alive.
Both Kenneth and Betty Kaunda were leaders in promoting health awareness in Zambia. They were praised for setting an example. They publicly shared their health test results. This helped encourage others to get tested too. Betty remained calm during difficult times. This included when her husband faced political challenges in the 1990s. She also helped collect donations after a mining accident. This accident sadly caused many deaths. She received the Indira Gandhi Non-violence award. This was for her work in peace efforts.
Later Years and Legacy
Many Zambian citizens saw Betty Kaunda as a national mother. They often called her by the loving name, Mama Betty Kaunda. She lived with a long-term health condition for many years.
Betty Kaunda passed away on 18 September 2012. She was visiting her daughter in Harare, Zimbabwe. She was 83 years old. She was survived by her husband, eight children, 30 grandchildren, and eleven great-grandchildren.
Betty Kaunda received a state funeral. This is a special ceremony for important national figures. Her funeral was held on 28 September 2012. It took place at the Cathedral of Holy Cross in Lusaka. Many diplomats, government officials, and thousands of Zambians attended. The government announced three days of national mourning. During this time, television and radio stations played hymns in her honor.
