A Zambian court has postponed the trial of Archbishop Alick Banda until November 6, 2026. The Catholic Archdiocese of Lusaka stated the proceedings did not proceed because the state prosecution team was unavailable. Banda faces charges regarding the alleged unlawful possession of a Toyota Hilux linked to the Zambia Revenue Authority. He pleaded not guilty to the offense, which is part of a broader investigation into improperly disposed government vehicles. The Archbishop was previously granted bail and released from Chimbokaila Correctional Facility after meeting surety requirements. The case remains pending in the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court.
The UK government and European Parliament have raised concerns regarding the detention of former Anglican Bishop Trevor Mwamba in Zambia. Mwamba, leader of the United National Independence Party, was arrested alongside 16 others on August 14, accused of treason following a security operation in Lusaka. The UK Foreign Office emphasized the need for due process, while the EU passed a resolution denouncing the misuse of security laws and calling for independent investigations into the death of opposition politician Mutotwe Kafwaya. Human rights groups and UN officials have also criticized the arbitrary arrests and restrictions on civic freedoms in the country.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
Read more →
Illustrative photo
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Ed Wingate on UnsplashPersecuted church
The Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) issued a message of support to the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops on October 1, 2026. The statement addresses recent legal proceedings involving Archbishop Alick Banda of Lusaka, who appeared before the Drug Enforcement Commission on September 28. SECAM President Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo emphasized the importance of due process and human dignity. The group noted clarifications from Zambian bishops that Banda is not accused of vehicle disposal. SECAM urged calm and unity among the faithful in Zambia as the judicial process continues.
The Zambian Presidency issued a press release on October 1, 2026, rejecting key points from a September 30 pastoral statement by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops. Chief Communications Specialist Clayson Hamasaka stated that the bishops' claims of national crisis, ethnic manipulation, and military control lacked evidence and resembled opposition narratives. The government emphasized that electoral grievances must be addressed through legal institutions and that dialogue must respect the recent democratic verdict. While welcoming appeals for reconciliation, State House warned that the statement's timing near ongoing clergy court proceedings could improperly influence public opinion and judicial independence.
Also reported by 1 other outlet
Read more →
Illustrative photo
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Ziph on UnsplashPersecuted church
Lusaka Archbishop Dr Alick Banda remains in custody at Chimbokaila Correctional Facility while his legal team attempts to satisfy bail conditions. The court granted K80,000 bail, but formalities were not completed in time on Monday. Banda faces charges regarding a Toyota Hilux allegedly obtained unlawfully from the Zambia Revenue Authority. He pleaded not guilty. The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops expressed solidarity, urging due process. The case stems from a wider investigation into improperly disposed ZRA vehicles, which has already resulted in convictions for former officials. The outcome of the bail hearing will determine if he avoids a second night in detention.
The Zambian government has abolished the October 18 National Day of Prayer, Fasting, Repentance and Reconciliation as a public holiday. Instead, it has merged the observance with December 29, which commemorates Zambia’s declaration as a Christian Nation. Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa announced the change in Lusaka, citing consultations with church mother bodies. Former Minister Reverend Godfridah Sumaili condemned the decision, calling it a betrayal of Christians. She argued that merging a solemn day of repentance with a celebration lacks spiritual understanding. The first combined commemoration will take place on December 29 this year.
The Zambian government has dismissed social media rumors claiming that Secretary to the Cabinet Patrick Kangwa ordered a suspension of church services and public gatherings until November 2026. Information and Media Permanent Secretary Thabo Kawana clarified that no such directive exists. He stated the reports are false and do not reflect official policy. Kawana emphasized that the government remains committed to constitutional rights regarding freedom of religion and peaceful assembly. He urged the public and media to verify information through official channels before sharing it, ensuring accurate communication of national policies.
Catholic bishops from Malawi, Zambia, and Zimbabwe have expressed solidarity with Lusaka Archbishop Alick Banda following his arrest and court appearances. The Association of Catholic Bishops’ Conferences of Malawi, Zambia and Zimbabwe, along with the Zimbabwe Catholic Bishops’ Conference, urged Zambian authorities to ensure a fair and transparent legal process. They emphasized respect for human dignity and called for calm among the public. The bishops noted Banda pleaded not guilty and was released on bail. Other figures, including politician Given Chansa, questioned the public interest in prosecuting the clergyman over a gifted vehicle. The case remains active in the Lusaka courts.
Archbishop Alick Banda of Lusaka, Zambia, was released on bail on September 28, 2026, while awaiting trial for allegedly possessing a vehicle acquired illegally. The Catholic Bishops Conference of Zambia claims this legal action constitutes persecution against a critic of the current regime. The case highlights ongoing tensions between religious leaders and state authorities in the country. This development is reported by the Catholic media center Cath-Info, which tracks such incidents involving church officials facing legal challenges.
The Tonse-Pamodzi Alliance in Zambia has endorsed interventions by the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Council of Churches in Zambia regarding deteriorating democratic conditions. Issued on 1 October 2026, the statement demands the release of political detainees, including retired Anglican Bishop Dr Trevor Mwamba and Celestine Mukandila. It also calls for an independent investigation into the death of Hon. Elder Mutotwe Kafwaya during a state security operation. The alliance criticized the government for using a militia narrative to justify arrests and cited UN Special Rapporteur Gina Romero’s view that treason charges are concocted. The group insists the Church must remain neutral and uphold truth and justice. (Source: Lusaka Times)
In Zambia, political tensions have risen following the arrest of Catholic Archbishop Alick Banda on suspicion of possessing a vehicle unlawfully obtained from the Zambia Revenue Authority. The ruling UPND party, represented by media director Mark Simuuwe, urged respect for judicial due process and stated that no one is immune from prosecution. Conversely, opposition leader Antonio Mwanza accused politicians of hypocrisy, noting that the Church previously supported his party while in opposition. The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops called for de-escalation and dialogue. The courts have not yet ruled on the matter, leaving the political divide sharp regarding the treatment of religious institutions.
Zambia’s Catholic and Protestant church bodies have issued statements warning that national unity and the rule of law are under strain following the 2026 general election. The Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops questioned the election's transparency and raised concerns about arbitrary arrests and military presence in civilian areas. Meanwhile, the Council of Churches in Zambia demanded an independent investigation into the death of former minister Mutotwe Kafwaya in Lusaka. Both organizations called for sustained national dialogue, an end to detention without due process, and protection for democratic institutions to restore public trust.
Caritas Zambia, through its partner Caritas Kasama, has launched the LIGHTS project to combat rising child abuse in southern Africa. Operating in Mporokoso, Mungwi, and Mpulungu, the initiative collaborates with the Zambian Association of Female Religious Congregations. According to a November 9 statement, Community Child Protection Committees educate residents on human rights, sexual violence, child marriage, and labor exploitation. The project aims to build safe communities for children and women. Supported by the Conrad N. Hilton Foundation, the campaign addresses critical issues, noting that nearly 29% of young women married before 18 and only 14.2% of children under five have birth registration. These statistics highlight the urgent need for legal identity and protection services in Zambia.
Translated from FrançaisAlso reported by 1 other outlet
Missio Austria presented the EMIL Award for the seventh time on Thursday evening in Vienna. The organization recognized individuals who have supported social and church projects for decades. Recipients included Father Alois Ortner, who has worked in the Philippines for nearly 40 years, and Sister Annie Chiluba, who runs a hospital in Zambia. Father George Elsbett and the couple Alfred and Elisabeth Berghammer were also honored for their contributions. The award features a bronze donkey symbolizing missionary work. Vincent Bueno provided musical entertainment at the gala event held at the ARIANA Eventcenter.
The World Evangelical Alliance invites churches worldwide to observe Orphan Sunday on 8 November 2026. The initiative encourages congregations to pray for and care for vulnerable children, aiming to strengthen families and support caregivers. Originating in Zambia in 2002, the movement now spans over 100 countries, including significant participation in Ukraine and the Middle East. Rebecca Goropevsek of the WEA Children’s Network highlights the church's unique position to notice struggling families. The event provides toolkits to help communities take practical steps toward ensuring children grow up in safe, loving environments.
In Lusaka, Zambia, a pastor and local evangelist visited Stella, a shopkeeper raising two children, one with physical challenges. Feeling isolated, Stella shared her burdens with the visitors, who read Psalm 23 and prayed for her family. Stella promised to attend church, and the team exchanged phone numbers to ensure continued follow-up. The report emphasizes that Christian love involves persistent care rather than immediate solutions. It highlights the importance of long-term relational support for those facing hardship in Zambia, where over half the population identifies as Protestant.
Translated from 日本語
Read more →
Illustrative photo
Illustrative photo, not from the original report · Photo by Ed Wingate on UnsplashGood news
Caritas Zambia is training youth leaders in seven districts of the Catholic Archdiocese of Kasama to prevent gender-based violence. Supported by UNFPA Zambia, the initiative equips participants with skills to engage local authorities and strengthen social accountability mechanisms. The program uses peer-to-peer learning to help young people advocate for community needs and raise awareness about GBV. The organization states that youth-led groups are driving change through evidence-based advocacy. This effort addresses a major human rights issue in Zambia, where surveys indicate high rates of physical violence against women due to harmful social norms and gender inequalities.
World Vision will hold the 10th Soul Chamber Orchestra concert, titled 'The Gift 10', on November 23 at the Lotte Concert Hall in Seoul, South Korea. The event features conductor Yoon Seung-up and approximately 70 professional musicians, including tenor John No. According to the organization, all proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to a clean water and sanitation project in Zambia, Africa. This initiative aims to provide safe drinking water to local residents and children, thereby reducing health risks and improving educational opportunities. World Vision President Jo Myeong-hwan expressed gratitude for the orchestra's long-standing support in delivering clean water to African children through music.
The Zambia Red Cross Society has activated its Early Action Protocol for Drought 1.0 in response to forecasted severe dry conditions. According to the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, the decision follows projections of below-normal rainfall during the 2026/2027 season driven by strong El Niño patterns. The initiative targets vulnerable households in Southern and Western provinces, aiming to provide cash assistance, agricultural inputs, and water access before peak drought impacts arrive between December 2026 and February 2027. This anticipatory action seeks to mitigate rising food insecurity and protect livelihoods in high-risk districts.
Joe Neff of TeachBeyond highlights the critical need for education among displaced populations. The organization operates two ministries, Beyond Borders and Open Schools Worldwide, to provide schooling in refugee camps and impoverished regions. These programs train Christian volunteers to teach nearly 15,000 children across at least 15 countries, including South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Swaziland, Kenya, Uganda, Malawi, and the Dominican Republic. Neff states that literacy prevents children from being recruited by extremist groups and helps them thrive in adulthood. The ministry uses a flexible, low-cost model to ensure safeguarding and effective learning outcomes for at-risk youth.
In June, women in the village of Kabulamwanda, Zambia, participated in seven trauma-healing lessons based on the Word of God. The International Mission Board reports that many attendees faced challenges such as abandonment, adultery, or infertility. During the sessions, they learned coping strategies and heard messages about salvation through Jesus. A new Bible study has since been established in the village to continue teaching biblical truth. The group encourages participants to attend these ongoing studies and embrace faith. This initiative aims to provide spiritual support and healing for women in the community.
The European Disability Network advocated for meaningful inclusion at Hope for Europe 2026 in Golem, Albania. Representatives from Germany, Spain, Belgium, Estonia, Ukraine, and Zambia argued that churches must move beyond basic care to grant people with disabilities decision-making power and leadership roles. Martina Köninger emphasized that assistance alone is insufficient. The group highlighted that one in six people globally has a disability, urging communities to remove social barriers and stigma. The network stressed that true inclusion requires recognizing the capabilities of all individuals within the Christian mission.
The United Church of Zambia organized an interdenominational cookery day in Mbala district to teach Girls’ Brigade members essential cooking skills. According to Girls’ Brigade Captain Albertina Thosi, the initiative aims to empower young women with practical life skills that foster self-reliance and improve household nutrition. Participants, including Bethel Nakasote, praised the program for boosting confidence and independence. Facilitator Clementine Chongo noted that learning to prepare balanced meals using local resources helps girls contribute more effectively to their families' well-being. The event highlights the organization's focus on holistic development beyond spiritual growth.
An Italian missionary has dedicated his life to serving people across various African nations, including Sudan, Congo, Zambia, and Kenya. Inspired by media coverage, he chose to identify with the continent. His work shifted to helping street children, supporting thousands of youths through community centers. Despite facing life-threatening situations, such as escaping mortar fire in specific mountainous regions, he refuses to return to Italy. He believes his place is in Africa, where he helps people regain dignity and build futures, viewing faith and material care as closely linked.
SermonWave writes its own short summaries and links to the original reporting. Every story belongs to the outlet that reported it. About World News · Our sources · RSS feed
