Zambia's ex-president Kenneth Kaunda's wife, died on Wednesday in Zimbabwe. (REUTERS)
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Zambia's ex-president Kenneth Kaunda was today hospitalised for an undisclosed ailment, forcing a requiem mass for his late wife to be cancelled, an official said.
"The family members have decided that the church service be postponed due to Kenneth Kaunda's sudden illness. Dr Kaunda has... been hospitalised at the University Teaching Hospital," said secretary to the cabinet Roland Msiska in a statement.
Kaunda's wife, Betty, died on Wednesday in Zimbabwe and the government has accorded her three days of national mourning.
The former first lady had been due to be buried tomorow.
Her contribution will forever be cherished by posterity
Meanwhile, President Jacob Zuma has sent his deepest condolences to Kenneth Kaunda, following the death of his wife. Zuma hailed Mama Kaunda as having played a prominent role in hosting South African freedom fighters during the apartheid era.
Zuma said: "As one of the pioneers and activists for women empowerment in post-colonial Africa, her contribution will forever be cherished by posterity."
"Our thoughts and prayers are with Former President Kaunda, his family as well as with the people of Zambia as they mourn the departure of our sister and mother, Mama Betty," added Zuma.
