Motivating Factors

The creation of the Legal Resources Foundation was the work of Robert Simeza and John Sangwa who are Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Foundation respectively. The need for such an institution was felt in 1991, which was a period of mass agitation for political changes on a scale until then unknown in Zambia's political history.

The agitation for change which started late in 1989, and ended with the elections of 1991 were motivated by the need for a new political arrangement emphasizing democracy and the attendant values; human rights, rule of law and good governance.

As we observed the unfolding events we became more and more convinced that if these objectives were to be realised the support of government and other institutions were needed, committed to the promotion of general civil awareness of the people and directly involved in the promotion of human rights awareness. It was also established that the realisation of these objectives was being hampered by a number of existing laws with a colonial origin.

On the other hand law was seen as a possible tool for social transformation, which could be used to bring about general civil awareness and promote a sound human rights culture in Zambia. The founder members were further motivated by the fact that similar organisations have been in existence for years in some other countries in the sub-region with similar objectives.

Their successes have been remarkable, and outstanding are the Legal Resources Foundation of Zimbabwe and the Legal Resources Centre of South Africa. The latter has an impressive record in litigating for the underprivileged people unable to meet their own legal costs.