ZAMBIA: Nuns Honour Long-Serving House Maid with Buffalo Bicycle on Labour Day
Sr. Helen Kasaka, LSMI
In a heart-warming celebration marking the feast of Saint Joseph the Worker and International Labour Day, Little Servants of Mary Immaculate Sisters at Chalabesa Convent in Mpika Diocese, Zambia, have honoured their long-serving housemaid, Ms. Elizabeth Kangwa (popularly known as Bana Nsofwa), with a brand-new buffalo bicycle.
Ms. Kangwa, who has faithfully served the convent since 1997, was recognized for her exceptional dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to duty. The award was presented by Kanchibiya District Commissioner, Mr. Crispine Chilekwa, in a ceremony attended by the religious community and well-wishers.
The Sisters lauded Ms. Kangwa for her outstanding attributes, including her long service, diligence, innovation, and willingness to work beyond expectations. Sr. Regina Mulenga, the leader of the community, described her as a motherly figure to all the Sisters.
“Elizabeth has no favourites; she counsels, advises, and supports the Sisters with humility and wisdom. She is respectful to everyone, warmly welcomes visitors even in the absence of the Sisters, and upholds the reputation of our community,” Sr. Mulenga said.
She further emphasized Ms. Kangwa’s strong Catholic faith and her role in maintaining the integrity and values of the convent.
The gift of a buffalo bicycle symbolizes not only appreciation for her service but also practical support to ease her daily commute. The event highlighted the importance of recognizing the often-overlooked contributions of domestic workers, whose dedication forms the backbone of many institutions.
As Labour Day celebrations echoed themes of dignity and respect for workers, the Little Servants of Mary Immaculate set a touching example by honouring one of their own, a woman whose quiet service has profoundly impacted their lives for nearly three decades.
