Happy Mother’s Day!

Happy Mother’s Day from Zambia! Yes, Zambians also celebrate Mother’s Day, although it is a relatively new holiday here. People may give their mother a gift or take her out to eat, just as in the U.S. Traditionally mothers occupy an important place in the family and community here in Zambia. They are the ones responsible for taking care of children and the home, although little by little fathers are taking more of a role, as in other countries. Women also do much of the farming here, as in most African countries. It is estimated that women do 80% of African agricultural work, so women are very important to the economy here in Zambia, although they are not always given credit for it. Mothers often supplement the family income by having a small business on the side, such as selling vegetables, or even dried caterpillars—a favorite treat here in Zambia.

Woman selling dried caterpillars to augment her family income.

As in most of Africa, a brother’s or sister’s children are considered as one’s own children. In the unfortunate case that a parent dies, the rest of the family, especially the siblings or grandparents, are responsible for raising the surviving children. As we visit churches throughout Zambia, we see many children being raised by relatives.

Rev. Mathildah Banda, General Secretary for the ELCZa.

Also, in honor of Mother’s Day, we want to feature the two women pastors of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zambia (ELCZa), Rev. Mathildah Banda and Rev. Doreen Mwanza. Rev. Banda serves as General Secretary for the ELCZa and Rev. Mwanza is the Lusaka District Pastor, as well as HIV-AIDS Resource Person for the ELCZa. She is parish pastor for Mulimba Congregation, about an hour west of Lusaka. Both are single and are raising their nieces and nephews, orphans of their siblings. Rev. Banda and Rev. Mwanza are both wonderful examples of the African tradition of making sure that all children have a loving upbringing. Please join us in wishing them a Happy Mother’s Day.

Rev. Doreen Mwanza teaching the youth about HIV and AIDS.