It is with profound sorrow that we mourn the passing of Dr Rodger Chongwe, a cherished former member of the Lechwe Trust main committee and a passionate advocate for the development of visual arts and crafts in Zambia. Far and above his stature as worldwide president of the Commonwealth Lawyers Association, Dr Chongwe offered, pro bono, to draft a constitution for the formation of the Zambia National Visual Arts Council (VAC) in 1989.

At the turn of our political dispensation from one-party to multiparty rule, Dr Chongwe was amongst MMD government cabinet ministers who advocated for an Act of Parliament that ushered in the formation of the National Arts Council of Zambia (NAC) in 1994. His dedication to fostering creativity, supporting individuals, and groups of artists, such as allocating studio space to the late Eddie Mumba at his legal office in Panganani Road, where Insaka International Artists’ Workshop was conceived, as a follow on to the Mbile International Workshops of the late 1980-90s.

Dr Chongwe’s enriching of our cultural landscape was truly unparalleled. He had a keen eye, understanding of artistic insight, and unwavering enthusiasm that inspired all who had the privilege of collaborating with him in the arts sector.

As a valued member of our Lechwe Trust committee, Dr Chongwe played an instrumental role in guiding the legal aspects of the visual arts.

Dr Chongwe joined the Lechwe Trust advisory committee on 9th September 1987 and attended his first meeting a week later. On 24th March 2020, Dr Chongwe retired from the committee, and Lechwe Trust founding chairperson, Cynthia Zukas, MBE, had this to say:

“I am writing on behalf of the Lechwe Trust committee, and on my own behalf, to thank you for your major contribution to our success.

“I can hardly believe that it is over thirty years since you joined us …

“I find it hard to put into words how much we appreciate your contribution- not only to the Trust – but to the visual arts in Zambia – in so many ways. We have always appreciated your helpful comments and words of wisdom.

“You have given us your legal advice, and also provided professional legal service when required, at no cost. Coming to more recent times … we would never have got the gallery going without you…”

Beyond Dr Chongwe’s legal professional impact on the arts, he cultivated a remarkable personal art collection that reflected his deep appreciation for aesthetics, innovation, and the power of visual storytelling.

Dr Chongwe’s legacy lives on, not only in the art he cherished, but also in the countless lives he touched through his support, generosity, vision, and love for the arts. Lechwe Trust will be forever grateful for the indelible mark that he left on the arts community.

During this time of grief, our thoughts are with his cherished wife, Gwenda, and indeed his beloved family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. MHSRIP.

William Bwalya Miko
Acting Chair
LECHWE TRUST COMMITTEE