A biographical tribute to a statesman whose life bridged nations, ended conflicts, and upheld the values of unity and justice.
Born in 1939 in Kasama, Zambia, Ambassador Peter Kasanda showed an early passion for learning and public service. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from the University of Rhodesia and Nyasaland, and later completed a Postgraduate Diploma in International Relations at the London School of Economics. These formative years shaped his worldview and laid the foundation for a distinguished career in diplomacy, where intellect, principle, and service guided his every step.
Ambassador Peter Lesa Kasanda was a distinguished Zambian diplomat and civil servant whose remarkable career spanned more than five decades. A pillar of Zambia’s foreign relations and public administration, he was widely respected for his integrity, professionalism, and unwavering dedication to national service.
His public service journey began on 1 December 1965, when he was appointed as an Administrative Officer in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. His competence, discretion, and diplomatic acumen quickly earned him the role of Private Secretary at State House, where he worked closely with Zambia’s first President, Dr. Kenneth Kaunda. In this capacity, Ambassador Kasanda became deeply involved in regional diplomacy, playing a crucial role in supporting the Frontline States during the liberation struggles in Southern Africa.
He was a vital link between Zambia, Tanzania, and other regional leaders as they coordinated efforts to confront apartheid in South Africa and support Zimbabwe’s path to independence.
As a key behind the scenes negotiator in respect of the Lancaster House Conference, he and colleagues were instrumental in securing the agreements that led to Zimbabwe’s liberation. Zambia’s influence extended to direct negotiations with prominent South African leaders—including John Vorster, P.W. Botha, and F.W. de Klerk— Ambassador Kasanda and colleagues played a key role in the diplomatic processes that paved the way for the end of apartheid in 1989.
Over the years, Ambassador Kasanda represented Zambia with honour on some of the world’s most important diplomatic stages—from Moscow to Paris, Beijing to New York. Whether coordinating multilateral negotiations at the United Nations or advancing Zambia’s strategic interests abroad, his work reflected an enduring commitment to good governance, pan-African solidarity, and Zambia’s place in the global community. His calm leadership and principled diplomacy earned him the trust of presidents, peers, and policymakers alike.
Even after his formal retirement, his service continued. In 2014, he was recalled to serve as Deputy Secretary to the Cabinet— a testament to the lasting value of his insight, experience, and leadership. He remained in this role until his final retirement in 2017, closing a career defined by extraordinary contribution and national pride.
The Council should move quickly to erase the impression of double standards by according equal treatment to all crisis situations in the world.
Ambassador Kasanda, as he is respectfully referred to even in retirement, has demonstrated unwavering commitment to public service and an instrumental role in shaping Zambia’s foreign policy across multiple administrations. His rise from an entry-level position to the highest echelons of diplomatic service is truly a reflection of his dedication, professionalism, and deep sense of national duty.
In recognition of his lifetime of service, Ambassador Kasanda has been awarded the prestigious title of Grand Commander of the Order of Diplomatic Service, one of Zambia’s most distinguished honours acknowledging exceptional contributions to the nation.
Beyond the global platforms and statecraft, Ambassador Kasanda is deeply cherished as a devoted husband and father. He is married to Dr. Dorothy Kasanda, and together they raised five children: Kaela Mainsah, Mwamba Kasanda, Chilombo Bould, Peter Kasanda Jr, and Luke Kasanda.