A civilian’s courage and selflessness in helping rescue 13 young women held captive have earned Robby Chitambo the President’s Medal for Gallantry, making him one of 20 people honoured at State House during the Investiture and Awards Ceremony marking Zambia’s 62nd Independence Anniversary.
Now serving in the Zambia Air Force, Mr Chitambo played a critical role in guiding authorities to the location where the women, including Pamela Chisimpa, who operated a mobile booth, were being held.
His actions helped facilitate their successful rescue and the swift apprehension of the perpetrators.
His bravery, demonstrated at a time when the victims’ safety was at stake, has now received national recognition.
Others honoured under the Order of the Eagle of Zambia, Third Division, are Iqbal Patel, Dr. Joseph Jimu Daka, Yaochi Huang and the late Ambassador Cox Caxton Sikumba, who was honoured posthumously.
Under the Order of the Grand Companion of Freedom, Third Division, the recipients are Timothy Hakalinda, Mwewa Lewis Chibwe, Rabson Chibulu and Saul Lackson Mambepa.
The Order of Distinguished Service, First Division, was conferred on Professor Chaloka Beyani, Dr. George Kapelwa Lipimile, Veronica Kunda and Dr. Michael Mayumbwayila Chilala.
Meanwhile, Sharadchandra Nanubhai Desai and Lata Sharadchandra Nanubhai Desai received the President’s Insignia of Honour, while Mbumwae Naita Suba Smith was awarded the President’s Insignia of Mercy.
Patrick Chinyemba, Carol Kanyemba and the late Ashious Jordan Melu, who was honoured posthumously, received the President’s Insignia of Meritorious Achievement.
The President’s Medal for Gallantry was awarded to Newton Nalumino and Robby Chitambo.
By Victoria Kayeye Yambani
