By 
Late Justice Winnie Sithole-Mwenda has been remembered as a jurist whose scholarship, leadership, and humility shaped generations of lawyers and strengthened Zambia’s judicial institutions.
Born in 1958, Justice Sithole-Mwenda passed away on February 14, 2026, after a brief illness. At the time, she was serving as Judge-in-Charge of the General Division of the High Court in Ndola.
Speaking during a valedictory session at the Supreme Court of Zambia in Lusaka, Chief Justice Mumba Malila described her death as a shock, noting that he had recently worked alongside her during a Supreme Court circuit session.
“She remained physically and mentally present at every moment, confirming her deep sense of duty and care for the institution she served so faithfully,” he said, praising her intellectual curiosity, discipline, and commitment to public service.
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Justice Sithole-Mwenda began her career in the early 1980s as a State Advocate at the Ministry of Legal Affairs, before serving as Legal Counsel at ZECCO.
She later founded and managed her private law firm, W. Sithole-Mwenda and Company, for over a decade.
Her career extended beyond Zambia when she served as Defence Counsel in Namibia’s Caprivi High Treason Trial from 2003 to 2009. She also held senior government positions as Permanent Secretary in the Ministries of Labour and Social Security, and Justice.
Attorney General, Mulilo Kabesha, lauded her contributions to public service and the Judiciary.
“She broke barriers and paved the way for many in the legal profession. Her practice was impeccable. She fought a good fight and finished her race as a legal practitioner and adjudicator,” he said.
Law Association of Zambia president, Lungisani Zulu, highlighted her authoritative writings in employment law, noting that generations of lawyers relied on her interpretations in their arguments.
Classmates from the University of Zambia (1976–1980) praised her qualifications and judicial competence, while colleagues underscored her humility, consistency, and dedication during her 12 years on the Bench.
Justice Sithole-Mwenda is scheduled to be buried at Mutumbi Cemetery later this week.
Her legacy leaves behind not only judgments but enduring standards for the Zambian legal profession.
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