Greek President pays tribute to Greek Community in Zambia during celebratory event
With heartfelt words and visible emotion, the President of the Hellenic Republic, Mr. Konstantinos A. Tasoulas, addressed a special event organised by the Holy Metropolis of Zambia and Mozambique titled: “60 Years of Independence — The Contribution of Hellenism to Post-Colonial Zambia.”
In his speech, President Tasoulas praised the historical journey and decisive contribution of the Greek community in Zambia, noting that “Hellenism in Zambia represents one of the most vibrant and accomplished Greek communities in Africa.” He emphasised the dynamic role Greeks have played in the country’s economy and public life, including their involvement in negotiating the purchase of copper mines from the British, their active participation in civic affairs, and their pioneering entrepreneurial efforts.
A special tribute was made to the historic presence of Greeks in Zambia, beginning as early as 1884 with Nikos Vlachakis from Malia, Crete, and continuing through the 1960s and 1970s, when large numbers of Greeks from Mytilene and other regions settled in the country. “This historical overview highlights the enduring and active Greek presence in Zambia and confirms that our diaspora serves as a vital link between our two peoples,” President Tasoulas stated.
He highlighted key areas of Greek activity, noting that “Greeks established the first flour mills in the mid-1960s,” and linked the tradition of baking to Greek heritage, adding: “Even today, in the north, in the Copperbelt region, and in every town and city, there is a Greek bakery.”
The President also acknowledged the essential work of local Greek organisations, commending the Greek Community of Copperbelt and the Association of Greeks in Lusaka for their cultural and educational contributions.
Particular praise was directed to the presence and mission of the Orthodox Church in the region. The President described the Holy Metropolis of Zambia and Mozambique as a “Beacon of Orthodoxy,” and paid tribute to His Eminence Metropolitan Ioannis of Zambia for his outstanding spiritual, social, and educational contributions. “His work in philanthropy, solidarity, and the promotion of our language and traditions is both inspiring and deeply moving,” he said.
Concluding his address, President Tasoulas expressed profound gratitude to the Greeks of Zambia: “Their multifaceted engagement honours our homeland and builds strong bridges of friendship and cooperation with their second homeland on the African continent.”
Source: orthodoxtimes.com
