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The National Heritage Conservation Commission (NHCC) has strongly condemned the vandalism and theft of the newly installed perimeter fence surrounding the graves of Zambia’s freedom fighters at Old St. Mary’s Cemetery in Kabwe, describing the act as disgraceful, shameful and an unacceptable attack on the country’s national heritage.
NHCC Executive Director Kagosi Mwamulowe said the Commission was deeply saddened by the desecration of a site that stood as a solemn reminder of the courage, sacrifice and patriotism demonstrated by Zambia’s liberation heroes and heroines in the struggle for independence.
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, Mwamulowe said the vandalism of the liberation heroes’ resting place was not only disgraceful but an affront to the national identity and collective history.
“These graves are sacred places of remembrance that deserve the utmost respect and protection. Those who fought for our freedom should continue to be honoured in death just as they were in life,” Mwamulowe said.
The Executive Director commended the Kabwe Municipal Council for its swift and unequivocal condemnation of the incident and for reaffirming its commitment to bringing the perpetrators to book.
“The Commission applauds Kabwe Municipal Council for taking a firm position against this unfortunate act. Such collaboration between public institutions is vital in safeguarding our shared heritage and ensuring that offenders are held accountable,” he said.
Mwamulowe reminded the public that the protection of national heritage sites was provided for under the NHCC Act, Cap. 173, which makes it a criminal offence to destroy, excavate, remove, deface or cause unauthorized damage to any proclaimed ancient monument, relic or protected heritage site.
He warned that the Commission would not hesitate to invoke the law against anyone found desecrating or vandalising protected heritage sites.
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“The National Heritage Conservation Commission will firmly enforce the provisions of the National Heritage Conservation Commission Act, Cap. 173. Anyone found damaging, vandalising or desecrating protected heritage sites will face the full force of the law,” Mwamulowe stated.
Mwamulowe further appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities around heritage sites to the Zambia Police Service, local authorities or the Commission.
He emphasized that preserving Zambia’s cultural and historical heritage was a shared responsibility requiring the active participation of every citizen.
“Our heritage is the foundation of our national identity and a priceless legacy entrusted to us by previous generations. We all have a duty to protect these sites for the benefit of present and future generations,” Mwamulowe said.
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