Our Patrons
HONORARY PATRON(2019-2021)
H.E. Dr Kenneth David Kaunda
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'While the continent has almost wholly achieved political freedom, economic freedom remains an elusive dream for most Africans. It is the defining struggle of this generation!’
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One of the last surviving founding fathers of post-colonial Africa.
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Founding father of the African Union (attended formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) in Addis Ababa in 1963).
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Served as the first President of the Republic of Zambia from 1964 to 1991.
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It was an honour for the CampaignFIA that President Kaunda was our first Honorary Patron and led the fight for economic independence and equality in Africa. For almost seven decades, he was at the forefront of the struggle for an independent Africa and was revered for his selfless and lifelong commitment to the emancipation of the African people from oppression.
President Kaunda’s contribution to this cause was immense, as reflected in his support for African liberation movements, the revolutionary education policies he instituted during his tenure as the first President of the Republic of Zambia, and his humanitarian work after leaving that Office, most notably his leadership in the fight against the spread of HIV/AIDS.
President Kaunda's dedication to African emancipation helped us to engage Heads of State in the continent more effectively, in particular the African Union which is an increasingly important lever for African social and economic transformation, given the positive trend of unity in the continent.
President Kaunda's
Message for CampaignFIA
'I am honoured to have been asked to serve as the Patron of this Campaign for Financial Independence in Africa.
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I was part of the generation on the forefront of the challenging struggle for political independence. When the founding fathers of the African liberation movement met in Addis Ababa on the 25th of May 1963 to establish the Organisation of African Unity, we forged a common vision for the Continent. It was a vision of an Africa where there would be freedom, liberty, peace and economic prosperity for everyone.
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After Independence, on the economic front some advances were also made. However, the fight for economic freedom still requires great effort.
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I believe that we can greatly improve this by educating and empowering young persons. I am therefore encouraged that this Campaign is being driven by the youth. I support the Campaign's goal of introducing financial literacy education to all schools in Africa. This will transform our Continent forever.'