HH Signs Book of Condolences to Mark Pope Francis’ Passing; Sends Delegation to Holy See for the Funeral

President Hichilema signed the official book of condolences to express sorrow on behalf of all Zambians for the passing of Pope Francis, head of the Roman Catholic Church.

He wrote of “deep reverence and heartfelt sympathy” for the man “whose life of humility, compassion, and steadfast faith deeply inspired our nation”.

In particular, the President noted Pope Francis’ teachings of unconditional love, mutual understanding, and building bridges. These messages, he claimed, “resonated powerfully within Zambia’s diverse communities, urging us to strengthen our commitment to one another”.

President Hichilema also directed a delegation, led by Minister of Foreign Affairs Mulambo Haimbe, to attend the funeral in Vatican City, due to be held on Saturday 26th April. The delegation includes other government ministers, and Ignatius Chama, Archbishop of Kasama, and George Zumaile Lungu, Bishop of Chipata and president of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops.

The news of Pope’s death will be particularly sorrowful for Zambia’s approximately four million Catholics, making up about 20% of the country’s population.