The entire Zambian nation recently woke up to the saddening news of the loss of his very-first President, Kenneth Kaunda. Dr. Mahtani, in his eulogy, praised Dr. Kaunda for his significant achievements in life, dedication towards the development and growth of Zambian nation as well as his sacrificial endeavour towards not only making Zambia independent but also uniting more than 70 tribes across Zambia into one national family and achieving the motto of ‘One Zambia, One Nation’.
Dr. Rajan Mahtani and late Kenneth Kaunda had several similarities in their philosophical underpinnings. One of the biggest associations was with the late father of Dr. Rajan Mahtani, Late Lekhraj Mahtani, who served as a Councillor in Ndola. Late Lekhraj Mahtani made significant contributions in the form of support and collaboration with Late Kenneth Kaunda in his quest for the freedom, uniting and development of the Zambian nation. This collaboration was taken ahead by Dr. Mahtani in the form of his dedicated business ventures for developing several provinces and cities of Zambia, bringing foreign direct investments in Zambia for improving its social, economic and technological position. Dr. Rajan Mahtani has further contributed to the Zambian nation with his charitable and philanthropic contributions such as development of facilities for less privileged people, development of the education system as well as charities for environmental protection. As such, it can be said that Dr. Mahtani is one of those few individuals in Zambia still following the path, legacy and philosophy underpinned by late Kenneth Kaunda.
Dr. Rajan Mahtani, despite remaining honest, ethical and transparent, achieved significant business success. This is the same philosophy of Dr. Kenneth Kaunda which Dr. Rajan Mahtani promotes and urges all Zambians to follow in their lives. By only following the principle of unity in diversity and ‘One Zambia, One Nation’, the Zambian nation will be able to grow and develop despite its significant differences and challenges. The eulogy shared by Dr. Mahtani focussed on this aspect and was beautiful.