POLISH ENVOY TELLS DIPLOMATIC JOURNEY -87-year-old Maria Wisniewski has dedicated over 3 decades to fostering relations from Zambia

  

WIŚNIEWSKI with her husband (second right) and children.

MARIA Wiśniewski (second left) with her children.

WIŚNIEWSKI at her Villa Victoria residence in Makeni.

AS WE step into the peaceful haven of Villa Victoria in Makeni Grey Zulu area, we are enveloped by a sense of history and grace. 

Surrounded by lush greenery, this serene abode serves as the home to an extraordinary diplomat, the 87-year-old Honourary Consulate General to Poland, who has dedicated over three decades to fostering international relations from Zambia.

Walking into her living room, we are welcomed by art paintings and photographs on the wall that tell her life story – one of bridging cultures and forging bonds. The majestic Polish eagle stands prominently displayed on a custom rug decorating the wall, representing the proud heritage and rich culture of Honorary Consulate General Maria Wiśniewski.

Upon joining us in the living room, her face illuminated with warmth, her smile an affirmation to the countless stories engraved in her heart. 

Dr Wiśniewska’s tenure in Zambia began on September 8, 1965, when she arrived with her husband, embarking on a journey that would span over five decades. 

Trained as a medical doctor specialised in aviation and space medicine, she quickly immersed herself in the structure of the Zambian society, establishing herself as a pillar of support and guidance for both Polish citizens and the local community.

“First, I spent two years at UTH, and then obtained my practising licence. Thereafter I conducted my practice at Protea Medical Centre and Medlab at Protea House on Chachacha Road, which is still registered to this day. I continued practising as a medical doctor until 2016.  Throughout this time I had the privilege of employing and training numerous Zambian doctors, personally overseeing their development prior to their full registration,” explained Dr Wiśniewski.

Over the years, her role evolved from medical practitioner to a diplomat – a transition marked by her appointment as Honorary Consulate in 1991. 

Since then, she has tirelessly worked to strengthen the bonds between Zambia and Poland, focusing on political, economic, and cultural cooperation.

“It is my duty to ensure that the collaboration between our two nations continues to thrive. I place great importance on assisting Zambia in its development journey, recognising the invaluable potential of its treasure – the people,” expressed Dr Wiśniewski.

Central to her mission is the belief in educational empowerment. 

Recognising Zambia’s potential for growth and development, the Consulate General has facilitated numerous scholarships for Zambian students to study in Poland. 

She noted that many of these scholars have returned to Zambia, equipped with knowledge and skills to contribute to the nation’s progress, evidence to her dedication to nurturing Zambia’s greatest asset – its people.

“I am dedicated to organising numerous scholarships for Zambians to train in Poland, with many returning home to assume roles in the business sector and also contribute to the development of rural areas,” said Dr Wiśniewski.

Beyond her diplomatic endeavours, Dr Wiśniewski remained deeply rooted in the structure of Zambian society. 

Her medical practice, which spanned over five decades, provided inspiration for countless individuals, both Zambian and Polish citizens. 

Dr Wiśniewski’s dedication to her people extended beyond the bounds of her office, as she provided support and assistance to Polish citizens in need, ensuring their well-being and safety in a foreign land. 

“Anybody arriving in Zambia and reports to the consulate is taken care of. I have had so many people who were stranded here. Generally they behave well, but if they don’t I also have to intervene. However, they cannot starve or become homeless. If necessary, I accommodate them in my guest flats. I have continued to give full support to Polish citizens visiting Zambia. Maybe that is why I am still holding my position since 1991,” she said.

In 2001, Dr Wiśniewski’s tireless efforts were recognised with her elevation to the position of Honorary Consulate General, the highest position within the consulate where she currently serves. 

Yet, despite her prestigious title, General Consulate Wiśniewski remains grounded in her commitment to service, tirelessly advocating for the interests of both Zambia and Poland.

“I have loyalty to both countries; Poland gave me an education and work experience and Zambia provided me with a very comfortable home, working and organising my life,” she said.

One of Dr Wiśniewski’s proudest achievements as Consulate General is the agreement on the abolishment of double taxation – proof of her diplomatic expertise and firm dedication to fairness and equality. 

“If a person is a Zambian working in Poland or Polish in Zambia, they cannot pay taxes in two countries. It took me quite a long time but I managed to win this, meaning they are only taxed in one country. They choose whether to pay taxes in Poland or back home in Zambia,” she explained.

The Consulate General outlined her intentions to continue strengthening the relationship between Zambia and Poland by sustaining cooperation and attracting additional investors from Poland.

“What Zambia needs are investors who will come specifically in mining because Zambia has got a lot of mining industries operating very well with a lot of resources such as copper, diamonds and other minerals. I have brought people from Poland who have been investing in the Copperbelt,” she added.

As she reflects on her journey, Dr Wiśniewski’s love for Zambia shines through, evident in her deep appreciation for the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. From the majestic Victoria Falls to the serene plains of the Luangwa Valley, she has discovered a land of hidden treasures, each more enchanting than the last.

Dr Wiśniewski’s long stay in Zambia has led her to appreciate the local staple – nshima.

“While Polish nationals often eat potatoes, I also take pleasure in nshima paired with nkuku [chicken],” she chuckled as she spoke.

At the heart of Dr Wiśniewski’s journey lies a simple truth – a belief in the power of diplomacy to build bridges, forge friendships, and transform lives. 

Through these efforts in diplomacy, education, and support for both Polish citizens and the Zambian community, she has left an indelible mark on both nations. 

In her ongoing journey, her legacy will endure as a pillar of resilience and inspiration, reminding us all of the profound impact that one individual can have in shaping the world for the better.