When it comes to private businessmen in Zambia, the philanthropic and charitable contributions by Dr. Rajan Mahtani is incomparable. Since his initial business successes, Dr. Rajan Mahtani has been equally active in contributing towards the growth and development of the Zambian society and its people. Dr. Rajan Mahtani has made significant philanthropic and charitable contributions in numerous fields and sectors including environmental, communities, NGOs, education, correctional facilities and several others.
Dr. Rajan Mahtani’s significant contribution towards the education sector of Zambia was recently picked up by the local newspaper Daily Mail. In the ‘Readers’ Forum’ section of the newspaper, the latest recipient of the Steven Malama award, Emmanuel Bwalya Kaluba, thanked Dr. Rajan Mahtani for his significant contributions towards uplifting the legal education in Zambia. The Steven Malama award was established by Dr. Rajan Mahtani and Finance Bank Zambia, where Dr. Mahtani holds the position of Chairman. This award was established for honouring the significant contributions of Late Steven Malama towards development of the legal framework of Zambia. Late Steven Malama was a distinguished legal professional, a bar luminary and a veteran at the Supreme Court of Zambia. He was also a close friend of Dr. Rajan Mahtani and the latter honoured these contributions by establishing the award in the year 2012. The award was given for the first time in 2013 and since then, it is given on an annual basis.
The recipient of the Steven Malama award must be a top graduating student of the Zambia Institute of Advanced Legal Education. The recipient should also qualify for the bar in their first attempt to be eligible for the award. The Steven Malama award carries a plaque, a certificate as well as an award money worth K15,000, providing significant financial contributions to the winning and deserving candidates. Irrespective of any promotion or social recognition, Dr. Mahtani continues to work for the betterment of the Zambian people and society.