By Bright Mtonga
What really makes a man? Is it his wealth? Is it his educational accomplishment? Is it his athletic ability? Or is it his political prowess?
Apparently for Frank Elemy Kabamba all the mentioned had nothing to do with him. Indeed, the man is a myth in death as much as he was in his life.
His sudden passing on from a shot illness on Saturday February 20, 2021, has shocked many people in Chililabombwe and beyond who took it to social media with messages of sorrow from across section of society at the untimely death of a man who has left an indelible mark on those who shared his life.
Born on December 24, 1977, Kabemba succumbed to the cold hands of death on February 20, 2021.
He leaves behind two children.
Mr Kabamba originated from Mbuji Kananga, a Kasai Province of the Democratic Republic of Congo, when he was five years old he relocated with his aunt and settled in W asection in Lubengele Township in Chililabombwe.
Despite his humble beginning, the young Elemy fought his way up and made his mark on the Chililabombwe community and beyond.
Chililabombwe’s Nkoloma Ward Councillor Joseph Fulwe Chansa who mingled with him was left devastated at the passing of a man he described as a brother and mentor.
Elemy was a man like no other he preached peace and reconciliation and always spoke the truth despite who was listening.
This author with Councillor Chansa, Twiggy Mwamba, Peter Mukosa, Emanuel Chitungulu and others had a conversation three weeks ago when Ba Elemy, spoke passionately about the need to be civil in politics.
The former ruling Patriotic Front district youth official emphasized the need for respect despite different political beliefs.
He explained how to it despite his alignment to the ruling party he never personally insulted or disrespected any leader.
He said that even in his other passion which was football, he always respected opponents and never resorted to uncivilized behavior despite not being a graduate of a certificate holder.
The phrase “Grade 12″ is one he used regularly to censure misbehavior and Emmanuel Chitungulu was told to stop talking loudly, “Ba grade 12 nimwebo mulelandisha ifi,”
Councillor Chansa is still in disbelief, “As a leader Ba Elemy was my advisor and my mentor both politically and business wise.
He taught me reconciliation, he was knowledgeable as a former constituency youth treasurer.In his business, the man was a multi tasking, he was involved in several businesses. As a born hustler, he had a nose for business and his accomplishments spoke for themselves.
As a man who didn’t consider himself educated he owned his own house and had a vehicle. This author is still amazed how Ba Elemy found himself in a plane travelling to watch the Zambia National Football team.
People from all walks of life gathered in Chililabombwe at St Mathews UCZ congregation to pay their last respect, to an enigma of our time, a man like no other.
Chililabombwe Patriotic Front District Chairperson Fredrick Lontos Mwape said the death of Elemy is a great loss not only to the party but to the Copperbelt community at large.
He said that it is always sad to lose a member especially a youthful and resourceful person like Kabamba.
Death is a mystery; we can only look to God to comfort the family and the PF party. We have lost a gallant patriot and we mourn with everyone.
Ba Frank Elemy Kabamba has been put to rest at Kakoso Cemetery in Chililabombwe.
Adios my friend and brother. Rest in peace.
