President Hakainde Hichilema has posthumously awarded Dora Nyambe with the President’s Insignia of Honour for rescuing over 200 girls from early marriages and championing access to education in Mkushi District.

He bestowed the honour during the Investiture Ceremony held at State House on Sunday to mark Africa Freedom Day.

Dora, a TikTok celebrity, who passed away at 32, returned more than 200 girls to school in the Mapapa area of Central Province.

She also built four schools that supported over 500 children with daily meals, education, and shelter through her charity Footprints of Hope, which began as a mud house.

Using proceeds from her social media platforms, particularly TikTok where she had over 4 million followers, Dora provided hope, love, and care to vulnerable children in the rural community she adopted as her own, having left behind city life.

“She gave these children more than just food and education. She gave them a future,” President Hichilema remarked.

Other honorees included:

Dr. Inonge Mbikusita Lewanika, former Ambassador to the United States, for distinguished diplomatic service.

Professor Muna Ndulo, legal scholar and good governance advocate.

Bernard Chiwala, recognized for contributions to infrastructure and agriculture development.

Professor Mwiindace Nkongwamini and Dennis Phiri (His Royal Highness Chief Malama) for their service in academia and traditional leadership.

Prof. Benjamin Mweene (posthumously) for contributions to science, and Prof. Mubanga Kashoki(posthumously) for language development.

Shakarongo Chengala Shakarongo, awarded the Insignia for Meritorious Achievement for contributions to arts and culture.

Hanif Adams (posthumously), for community development.

Sister Mary Lucy, awarded the President’s Insignia of Mercy for decades of humanitarian work.

Lawrence Katilungu and Hezekiah Gwaale Habaanyama (both posthumously), awarded the Grand Commander of the Order of the Companion of Freedom, Zambia’s highest civilian honour.

Joseph Katampi, awarded the Grand Officer of the Order of the Companion of Freedom for his role in the country’s independence and unity.

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President Hichilema said the awards represent national gratitude for exemplary service and patriotism.

“We honour these outstanding citizens not only for their personal achievements but also for their lasting contributions to Zambia’s progress and the preservation of our national values,” he said.

Earlier in the day, the President led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Freedom Statue in Lusaka, joined by Cabinet Ministers, diplomats, service chiefs, freedom fighters, and other dignitaries in honour of Zambia’s and Africa’s liberation heroes.

This year’s Africa Freedom Day was commemorated under the theme: “Educate and Skill Africa for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong Quality and Relevant Learning in Africa.”

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