President Hakainde Hichilema has called on leaders across the country to draw inspiration from the late Mutumba Bull’s exemplary leadership and unwavering dedication to public service.
Speaking during the official funeral service held at the Cathedral of the Holy Cross in Lusaka this morning, President Hichilema said embracing late Dr Bull’s attitude, resilience and collective approach to problem solving could be transformative for national development.
The media reports that the Head of State described Dr Bull, Zambia’s first female full Cabinet Minister who died on February 13, 2026, at the age of 88, as a trailblazer whose contributions to the country’s development will remain etched in history.
He stressed the importance of understanding the nation’s heritage and raising children with strong values, regardless of their circumstances.
“Dr Mainga Bull, a great daughter of this country, was raised by a family that instilled strong values in her. When one reflects on the place where she was born and what it represented at the time, one can only marvel at what this country can produce from all corners, and the importance of raising our children properly,” President Hichilema said.
He noted that the late scholar and stateswoman did not allow her environment or background to define her achievements, but instead rose above limitations through hard work, discipline and commitment.
President Hichilema further urged Zambians to know their history in order to appreciate the sacrifices and contributions of pioneers such as Dr Bull.
He thanked her family and community for nurturing her into a leader who served both Zambia and the international community with distinction.
“We have heard what she accomplished, but how did she achieve such great things? It was not merely intellectual ability, it was her attitude and commitment to hard work. These are lessons all of us must learn from,” he said.
The President also expressed gratitude to the family for allowing Dr Bull to dedicate much of her time to national and global service, noting that her authorship of 50 books ensures that her impact will endure for generations.
He wished the family comfort, assuring them that her service to the country will always be honored.
Earlier, Electoral Commission of Zambia Chairperson, Mwangala Zaloumis, presented Dr Bull’s life history, noting that she obtained her PhD in History from the School of Oriental and African Studies at the University of London, becoming the first Zambian woman to earn a doctoral degree.
Ms Zaloumis said the late’s academic focus was African history, particularly the history of the Lozi Kingdom and Zambia’s pre-colonial political systems.
Meanwhile, University of Zambia Vice Chancellor, Mundia Muya, said the institution will greatly miss Dr Bull’s passion for knowledge, dedication to teaching and publishing, and her commitment to raising academic standards at the university.
In her tribute, Dr Bull’s first born daughter, Liseli Bull, described her mother as supportive, resilient and strong.
Dr Mutumba Mainga Bull, was also the first Zambian woman to earn a PhD, and the first female lecturer at the University of Zambia.
