COMESA has joined the region in mourning the passing of H.E. Dr Edgar Chagwa Lungu, Zambia’s sixth president. In a message of condolences to H.E. Excellency President Hakainde Hichilema, Secretary General Chileshe Mpundu Kapwepwe expressed profound sadness at the news of the demise of President Lungu on 5 June 2025.
“On behalf of the entire Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa and indeed on my own behalf, I would like to convey our most sincere and heartfelt condolences to his family, the people and Government of Zambia for this loss,” the Secretary General said.
She added that President Lungu played a central role in promoting regional integration and development efforts not only for COMESA but the entire African continent. In particular, he led efforts in ensuring that Zambia hosted a successful 20th Summit of the COMESA Heads of State and Government in Lusaka in July 2018.
He was also a dedicated champion for other regional economic integration efforts including the African Continental Free Trade Area. His commitment to regional peace, democracy and stability ensured a peaceful transition of leadership in August 2021 after the country’s general elections that year.
During this period of national grief and mourning, COMESA stands in solidarity with the Lungu family, the people and the Government of Zambia.