In a developing and struggling nation such as Zambia, the public sector and government is usually not strong enough to provide for the ever-changing requirements of the common people. In these conditions, the contributions from the private companies and businessmen are of significant value. Dr. Rajan Mahtani is one such respected and regarded businessman from Zambia who is known for his significant philanthropic and charitable contributions, spanning more than three decades. Since his early business successes, Dr. Mahtani has not shied away from contributing towards the development of Zambian economy, society and its people. His contributions span across several industries and fields such as education, housing, banks, medical facilities and healthcare sector, correctional facilities and several others.
The Steven Malama award is one of the most noteworthy awards in Zambia in the field of education. This award was established by Dr. Rajan Mahtani in the year 2012 for honouring memory of the late Steven Malama. The award was given for the first time in 2013 and since then, it is an annual award given to the topper student from the Zambia Institute of Advanced Legal Education. The award carries a plaque and prize money worth K15,000 which has been of significant financial support to the winning candidates. The latest winner of the award was Emmanuel Bwalya Kaluba who wrote an article thanking Dr. Mahtani for his contributions which was later published at the Daily Mail. The institution of this award has been extremely significant for the law education as it has provided students with the opportunity to improve their career and become better leaders of the future.