African leaders eulogise former Zambia President Edgar Lungu

President William Ruto chat with then President Edgar Lungu of Zambia during the 19th Summit of COMESA Heads of States and Governments. [File]

Former Zambian President Edgar Lungu, who died Thursday at age 68, has been remembered as a visionary leader who served with humility, wisdom, and firmness by leaders across Africa.

Kenyan President William Ruto described Lungu as "a visionary leader who served his people with passion."

"Our condolences to the family and the people of Zambia for the untimely death of Former President Edgar Lungu. President Lungu was a progressive and outstanding leader who served the people of Zambia with zeal and commitment," said Ruto.

Former Kenyan President Uhuru Kenyatta eulogised Lungu as "a distinguished statesman who served his country with dedication and honor."

''His commitment to the prosperity and unity of Zambia was evident throughout his presidency, and his calm, measured leadership will be remembered by all who knew and worked with him,'' wrote Uhuru on X.

''I mourn a trusted friend and fondly recall his visits to Kenya and the moments we shared discussing the future of our continent, the role of youth, and the importance of building bridges across our nations."

Kenyatta also offered prayers for Lungu's family, saying that he carried a quiet strength and a genuine desire to see Africa thrive in peace and dignity.

Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema also paid tribute, saying "Our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Zambia's Sixth President, Edgar Chagwa Lungu. May his soul rest in eternal peace."

His Tanzanian counterpart, Samia Suluhu Hassan, expressed solidarity in a message on X: "On behalf of the Government and the people of Tanzania, I extend our heartfelt condolences to His Excellency, Hakainde Hichilema, President Lungu's family, friends and the people of Zambia.''

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said his country shares in Zambia's grief.

"As regional compatriots, South Africans are standing by the people of Zambia in this difficult moment. We have had the duty and privilege in recent weeks to care for a leader from our region whom we embraced as a brother and friend."

Lungu, who served as Zambia's president from 2015 to 2021, died aged 68 while receiving specialised medical treatment in South Africa.