The Zambian Mission in Belgium yesterday held a remembrance church service for the late Defence Attache Brigadier General Samson Simwanda who died in Brussels.
The church service which was held at the International Baptist Church of Brussels was preceded by a guard of honour mounted by the Belgian defence forces.
During the service, Charge d’ Affairres Henry Ngilazi described the death of Gen. Simwanda as a loss to the Mission and the country.
Mr. Ngilazi said Gen. Simwanda was a remarkable diplomat who served the Mission and the nation professionally and diligently.
Mr. Ngilazi said Gen. Simwanda dedicated his life to selfless service and generously rendered his knowledge and expertise whenever called upon.
“During his tour of duty, Gen. Simwanda served as the President of the Corp of Air, Military and Naval Attaches (CAMNA), an assignment that brought pride to the Mission and the Republic of Zambia. He was a multi-talented serviceman who executed his duties with excellence. The Mission will truly miss his exceptional services,” said Mr. Ngilazi.
And Dean of CAMNA Brig. Gen. Abdelaziz Al Hama said the association of Defence Advisors accredited to the Kingdom of Belgium is saddened by the death of Gen. Simwanda.
He described Gen. Simwanda as a man of good humour who was committed to serving the association.
Gen Hama said this in a tribute read on his behalf by Defence Attache of the South African Embassy in Brussels Brig. Gen. Macdonald Letsholo.
A representative from the Dutch military, Head of the International Military Liaison Brig. Gen. De Jong described Gen Simwanda as a professional man who was always eager to learn from his colleagues.
Gen. Simwanda began his career in the Zambia Air Force (ZAF) in 1988 and rose to the rank of Colonel in May 2012, before being promoted as Brigadier General on 3rd February 2017, a position he held at the time of his demise.
He was appointed into diplomatic service on 23rd March, 2015.
Gen Simwanda, 50, died on 1st May 2018 and is survived by a wife Mika and five children.
Meanwhile, a book of condolences has been opened at the Zambia Embassy to allow the diplomatic community to pay their last respects.
The body of the deceased is expected to be repatriated to Zambia today and arrives at Kenneth Kaunda International Airport on Friday aboard Ethiopian Airways at 14:30 hours.
Issued by:
Phyllis Chilekwa (Ms.)
First Secretary – Press and Public Relations
Embassy of the Republic of Zambia
Brussels – BELGIUM
Sorry about this. So guys tell us more; what did he die of?
What did he die of at such a young age? I hope he had good life insurance for those 5 children.
@Sinyanga, people die of death. Are looking at blaming him or spies?
Condolences to Mrs Mika Simwanda. The man saved the country with passion and dedication. Be encouraged mama that your husband has gone to a better place in God’s presence. We shall truly miss him on this side of eternity.
Where is the lid for the casket ?
Jesus; what do you want to do with it?
Rest In Peace General. @ Nkope and @Nubian. It was a sudden death. He just collapsed. Suspected cardiac arrest (He had put on quite some weight) but they probably have more specific details since an autopsy was done.
Deepest condolences to the family and the nation of Zambia at large. MHSRIEP
SAD
Condolences to the family. Sad.
LT poor reporting. Tell us the cause of death. Meanwhile, May His Soul Rest In Peace.
For what benefit to you !
Rest in peace uncle Samson. You death has hurt the whole family we are suddend by your death
Condolences to the family. Tomorrow is promised to no one and death comes without warning, so seek peace with your creator while you are still alive.
May his soul rest in peace. My condolences to the family
Why is it that we get to know people with great service for Zambia only at their death? It becomes almost impossible to appreciate their sacrifices for at hand some people start scratching their heads trying to unfold who the person was! The likes of the Brigadier General cuts across government of the day and party lines for military personnel are loyal to Zambia period! Sad whenever a death occurs and accolades deepen the sorrow of loss, MHSRIP.
Heartfelt condolences to the family. It is indeed sad news.
Comment: will always remember u,until we meet again
Our heartfelt condolences to the bereaved family. May God strengthen the family in this trying times of pain. RIP bro.