Zambia’s Former Finance Minister Edith Nawakwi Dies at 66.

Zambia is mourning the loss of one of its most prominent figures, Edith Nawakwi, who has died at the age of 66.

Nawakwi, a seasoned economist and president of the opposition Forum for Democracy and Development (FDD), made history as the country’s and the Southern African region’s first female Minister of Finance.

Born in 1959 in Mwenzo, Northern Province, Nawakwi blazed a trail in both politics and economics over a distinguished career spanning decades. In 1998, she broke significant gender barriers when she was appointed Minister of Finance under President Frederick Chiluba’s administration, becoming the first woman in Zambia and the entire Southern African Development Community (SADC) to hold the role.

Nawakwi held a degree in Agricultural Economics and Business Management from the University of Zambia, along with a postgraduate diploma in the Economics of Energy and Development from Imperial College London. Her academic and professional background cemented her reputation as a formidable force in economic and development matters.

Between 1992 and 2001, she served in several key cabinet positions, including Minister of State for Energy and Water Development, Minister of Energy and Water Development, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Fisheries, and Minister of Labour and Social Security.

Nawakwi experienced personal tragedy, including the loss of her daughter in 2013. She was previously married to Geofrey Hambulo.

Her death marks the end of a significant chapter in Zambia’s history. As tributes pour in from across the nation, many remember her as a pioneering leader who championed economic reform and women’s empowerment.

May her soul rest in eternal peace.