09/01/2026
A Nation's Gratitude in a Time of Sorrow
To Lieutenant General Geoffrey Choongo Zyeele, Commander of the Zambia Army,
And to the Bereaved Family of Staff Sergeant Banda Alick,
It is with profound sorrow that we, at the Jubilee Leaders Network, learned of the passing of Staff Sergeant Banda Alick. While we may not have had the honour of knowing him in life, we feel deeply the weight of his sacrifice. His return to the soil of Zambia is a sombre moment for our entire nation.
The image of his remains being received under the solemn night sky at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport, paints a poignant picture of a nation honoring a silent hero. To die in the line of duty, far from home, while wearing the blue helmet of the United Nations in the Central African Republic, is the ultimate testament to a life of courage and selflessness. Staff Sergeant Banda did not merely serve the Zambia Army; he served humanity, carrying the banner of peace for Zambia and for all of Africa.
We echo the sentiments of the Defence Permanent Secretary, Mr. Maambo Haamaundu, that this loss is felt in every corner of our land. From his first day of training at Lukanga Recruit Training Centre in 2012 to his final posting with the Corps of Armour, his career was a journey of dedication. His sacrifice, as rightly noted, starkly highlights the risks our brave men and women voluntarily face to uphold global peace and security. It is a powerful reminder of the price paid for the stability we often take for granted.
To the family, please accept our most heartfelt condolences. No words can soften the sharp edge of your grief, but we pray you find solace in the knowledge that your husband, father, son, and brother was a man of immense honour. His legacy is etched not only in the annals of the Zambia Army but in the pursuit of a more peaceful world.
To Lieutenant General Zyeele and the entire Zambia Army, we stand with you in mourning. The loss of a soldier is indeed devastating, and we are moved by your leadership and solidarity with the grieving family. As Colonel Mbao Brian Ntanga urged the contingent in Bangui, may we all honour SSgt Banda's memory by renewing our own commitment to the causes of peace, unity, and service.
May the Almighty God surround the Banda family with His comforting presence and grant you strength through this period of mourning. May the soul of Staff Sergeant Banda Alick, a true peacekeeper, rest in eternal peace.
Thank you for your Service.
With deepest sympathy and national pride.
Kennedy M Chileshe
Executive Director,
Jubilee Leaders Network