Kenneth Kaunda International Airport (KKIA) was filled with grief as the body of late Salvation Army Training Principal, Lieutenant Colonel Kennedy Mizinga, was officially handed over to Territorial Commander Colonel Alfred Banda.
Lt Col Mizinga died last Monday in 2026 following a short illness. His passing has been described as a significant loss to the Salvation Army, particularly in officer training and mentorship, where he made notable contributions.
Representing the Kenya Territory, a Salvation Army official delivered a brief but emotional message during the handover ceremony, bringing many mourners to tears.
“Territorial Commander, fellow mourners, we tried. But when we went to sleep, the enemy stole him away from us. We are sorry,” the representative said.
The statement reflected the sense of sorrow felt by Salvation Army officers and members in Kenya, where Lt Col Mizinga had been serving as Training Principal at the time of his death.
Colonel Alfred Banda expressed gratitude to the Kenya Territory for the care, support, and respect accorded to the late officer during his final days, adding that his dedication and service would be remembered.
Following the handover, the body was transported from the airport with prayers and military-style honours as family members and fellow officers paid tribute.
A church service is scheduled to take place today at the Salvation Army Libala Temple in Lusaka, with burial planned for tomorrow at the family farm in Chongwe.
Lieutenant Colonel Kennedy Mizinga is survived by his wife and two children.
