LONGACRES MALL RENAMED TO KK MALL
On
September 18, 2024, Republican President Mr. Hakainde Hichilema officially renamed
Longacres Mall in Lusaka to KK Mall in honor of Zambia’s founding President,
Dr. Kenneth David Kaunda, and his enduring legacy.
The
KK Mall, an investment by the Public Service Pensions Fund (PSPF), houses the
iconic KK Statue in Kenneth Kaunda Square, a popular attraction for both local
and international visitors.
Speaking
at the renaming ceremony, President Hichilema, represented by Minister of
Tourism Hon. Rodney Sikumba, MP, praised the PSPF Board and Management for
accepting the proposal by the National Museums Board to rename Longacres Mall.
He described the partnership as mutually beneficial and highlighted that the
renaming is a tribute to Dr. Kaunda’s profound influence on Zambia’s identity
and his lasting legacy.
President
Hichilema emphasized that renaming the mall is a symbol of collective
appreciation for Dr. Kaunda’s contributions to Zambia. He noted that it will serve
as a reminder to future generations of the values Dr. Kaunda championed,
including unity, freedom, equality, and social justice.
PSPF
Board Chairman Mr. John Kasanga, represented by Board Member Mr. Makai Makai,
called on the National Museums Board to establish a store at KK Mall that will sell
artifacts and apparel commemorating Dr. Kaunda’s legacy, offering visitors a
deeper connection to his history. He added that KK Mall, as a cultural
landmark, will positively contribute to Zambia’s tourism sector, attracting
visitors from far and wide while boosting the economy.
Mr.
Kasanga also explained that the decision to rename Longacres Mall to KK Mall followed
thoughtful collaboration between PSPF and the Ministry of Tourism, recognizing
Dr. Kaunda’s significant contributions not just to Zambia but to the entire
African continent.
National
Museums Board Chairperson Mr. Alexander Mutali said the KK Mall will constantly
remind younger generations of Dr. Kaunda’s sacrifices for Zambia and Africa.
Speaking
on behalf of the Kaunda family, Dr. Kaunda’s daughter, Musata Kaunda Banda,
expressed gratitude to PSPF for the investment in KK Mall and their decision to
honor her father. She acknowledged the importance of ensuring that Dr. Kaunda’s
legacy lives on for future generations.