Climate change activists under the aegis of the Pan African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA), have been paying their last respects to a member and environmental bigwig, the late Robert Kunda Chimambo, who was laid to rest on Tuesday, January 30, 2024.
“It is with heavy hearts that we say goodbye to a cherished friend, Robert Kunda Chimambo, a true pan-Africanist and a beacon of light in our journey for climate activism,” submitted PACJA.
The group has variously referred to him as a “tireless PACJA pillar, as well as invincible and tireless climate activist.” Chimambo was a member of the PACJA Technical and Political Affairs Committee and Co-Convener of Mitigation.
He is said to be instrumental to the growth of the Alliance and spearheaded the grounding of PACJA in Zambia. He also reportedly played a critical role in the history of the Zambia Climate Change Network.
“When PACJA was at its nascent stages, it needed people who believed in anti-colonisation ideologies, bold and astute men and women capable of grassroots organising and building strong movements. One of these men was Chimambo,” submitted PACJA, describing him as “resilient; outspoken and a critic of oppressive Western capitalistic interests”.
PACJA Executive Director, Mithika, Mwenda, said: “Words cannot describe the loss, dear colleagues. To Chimambo’s family, ZCCN and entire PACJA family, condolences from PACJA Secretariat. We are liaising with our team in Lusaka and will furnish you with further information regarding send-off preparations. RIP LEGEND.”
Prof. Chinedum Nwajuiba, Nigeria, said: “Across Africa, we mourn. I mourn an elder brother and a friend, Prof. Robert Chimambo, of the Zambia. One of the clearest minds on the African condition and place in the world.
“I feel a personal deep sense of loss, that we shall not meet at the different fora in and outside Africa, where we meet. Mzee, Dinosaur, Bob, the bold, articulate, and outspoken environmentalist, climate activist, historian, political economist, humanist, my brother and my friend, died January 27, buried January 30. May his soul rest in peace.”
Nicholas Abuya, Kenya: “This is devastating news. Chimambo was a true Pan-Africanist and resolute defender of human rights and climate justice activist. My thoughts and prayers to his family.”
Mauwia Shaddad, Sudan: “We have lost the legend, Mr. Chimambo. This is the legend that tirelessly fought against mining in the Lower Zambezi together with other CSOs. RIP.”
Swaleh, Kenya: “Until we meet again professor!! One of my mentors…you shall be truly missed…we shall carry your name with honour and pride…May the Lord grant him the highest of paradises and may he meet us all in the gardens of paradise when our time comes.”
Martha G-Bekele, Ethiopia: “Oooh noooo. I am so sorry to hear this. I kept texting him from Dubai wondering why he did not grace us with his presence. May your soul rest in eternal peace, Comrade. May you continue guiding us all to fight for the good cause you left behind.”
Simbilo Simbwata, Zambia: “Sad state of affair, we have lost a pillar, gallant Father and Mentor in Climate Advocacy, Climate Policy and Environmental Justice and Protection such KCM saga, Mining in Lower Zambezi, degazetting of Forest 27, etc. I have had privilege to learn from him for over 10 years my university days. Gone too soon and he must rest in peace. My sincere condolences to the family and everyone.”
Mamadou Barry, Senegal: “Oh my God. Yes, PACJA lost a very important member in his family. Robert was a big fighter, a big defender for Africa interest. I learnt more from him because he was so generous to share to advice and to discuss with anyone. He was also a simple man; very modest person. Yes, PACJA lost a very important person. He was available to make me laugh. RIP my father, Robert. If I could, I would do my best to come in Zambia to deliver my condolences directly to your family.”
Satish Kumar, India: “Words can’t express all of our feelings. He was a great mentor, a great fighter for environmental/climate justice, a great human being always available to guide us with his wisdom and knowledge – I personally learnt a lot from him especially on the impact of the colonial legacy on the environmental resources in Africa. Deep felt condolences to Leader Mr. Chimambo’s family, ZCCN and to the whole family.”
Kgaugelo Chiloane, South Africa: “Rest in peace, Comrade! You have run your race. We thank God for your life. We shall continue the fight for climate justice for the African continent. Till we meet again, Sir. To God be the glory. Condolences to the family.”
Ahmed Sekou, Mali: “We have lost a great man! A very respectful and sincere friend and brother. Our sincere condolences to both of PACJA and his explored family. It’s painful and sad but the will of the Good Lord. That his soul rests in peace. Amina. We will forever miss you my dear monument.”
Osafo Seth, Ghana: “My brother Chimambo, your passing is a big loss, not only for PACJA and the family of climate change activist but for the Global climate change community. May your soul rest in peace.”
Mamaudou Ouegragao, Burkina Faso: “Oh my god! How difficult it is to hear such sad news when nothing foreshadowed it. Such is earthly life. Our sincere condolences to his biological family as well as to all his comrades in the fight for climate justice! May the free land of Africa be light to him!”
Lucky Abeng, Nigeria: “Oh my God! Mr. Chimambo is one of those African elders who insist young people must be intentionally African. May his gentle soul rest in perfect peace.”
Ahmed Fathy, Egypt: “One of the biggest losses for us, I see my memory with him running into my eyes. We lost brother and father and mentor Rest in peace our brother and hope Allah accept our doaa for you will life on our memory for ever. I suggest to PACJA secretariat if it possible to have yearly award under his name. Goodbye our dinosaur and see you in paradise.”
