President Hichilema Appoints Archbishop Chama as Zambia’s Representative at Pope Francis’s Funeral

President Hakainde Hichilema has appointed Archbishop Ignatius Chama of Kasama to lead Zambia’s delegation to the funeral of His Holiness Pope Francis, scheduled to take place at the Vatican this Saturday.

Accompanying Archbishop Chama will be Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hon. Mulambo Haimbe, and Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Hon. Charles Milupi.

This delegation underscores Zambia’s deep respect for the Catholic Church and its global leadership. Archbishop Chama, a prominent figure in Zambia’s Catholic community, will represent the nation’s faithful in honoring the late Pope, whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and a commitment to social justice.

President Hichilema expressed profound sorrow over the Pope’s passing, stating: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of His Holiness Pope Francis. Pope Francis was a man of great humility and compassion, who led the Catholic Church by example. We join Catholics and fellow Christians across the world in mourning today. In a Jubilee year, on the most important day of the year for the Catholic faithful, Pope Francis has been promoted to glory. May his soul rest in eternal peace.”

The funeral is expected to draw numerous world leaders and dignitaries, reflecting Pope Francis’s global influence and the widespread mourning of his passing.