Former Cabinet Minister in the United Independence Party (UNIP), Mutumba Bull, has died at the age of 88.

ZANIS reports that Secretary to the Cabinet, Patrick Kangwa has announced the death of Dr Bull’s in a statement issued to ZANIS in Lusaka.

Mr Kangwa stated that Dr Bull died in Lusaka after a short illness.

He revealed that the late Dr Bull who was the first female Cabinet Minister in the UNIP Government was a trailblazer in Zambia’s political and academic history.

Mr Kangwa stated that the late Dr Bull was also the first Zambian woman to obtain a Doctorate Degree and later lectured at the University of Zambia.

He has described the late stateswoman as a distinguished national figure whose contributions to public service and education remain invaluable.

Mr Kangwa says President Hakainde Hichilema has accorded the late Dr Bull an official funeral in recognition of her selfless service and outstanding contribution to national development.

He said the late Dr Bull was elected Member of Parliament for Nalolo Constituency in Western Province in 1973 and served two terms until 1983.

He added that during her political career, she held several senior ministerial portfolios, including Minister of Health from 1973 to 1976, Minister of Commerce from 1976 to 1977, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Services between 1978 and 1979, Minister of State for Foreign Affairs from 1980 to 1981, and Minister of State for Civil Service from 1982 to 1983.

Mr Kangwa further announced that the funeral gathering is being held at her residence on Nyerere Road in Woodlands, Lusaka.

Mr Kangwa stated that the Government is currently working closely with the family to finalise funeral arrangements, after which a detailed burial programme will be communicated to the public.