Chikuni Mission gives praise to God as it marks 120 years since its establishment and looks ahead to reimagining the mission at 125 years. To commemorate this momentous occasion, a celebration was held on March 16, 2025, at St. Canisius High School grounds, graced by the President of the Republic of Zambia, Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, and Bishop Raphael Mweempwa of the Diocese of Monze.

The event, attended by national and local government officials, traditional leaders, various church leaders, priests, sisters, those in formation, and thousands of Catholic faithful from the Diocese of Monze, highlighted Chikuni Mission’s unwavering commitment to its founding principles of service and justice through faith, education, agriculture, health, and cultural preservation over the past 120 years. Adding to the significance of the occasion, Chikuni Community Radio Station also marked 25 years of existence during the celebration.

Monze Diocese Catholic Bishop Raphael Mweempwa, who led the Eucharistic celebration as the main celebrant, unveiled a five-year program of activities set to culminate in the 125th-anniversary celebrations of one of Zambia’s earliest and most enduring Catholic missions established by the Jesuits.

“As we embark on this journey to commemorate our 125-year history, we honour the sacrifices, dedication, and faith of our founding fathers and mothers. They planted the seed of faith, which has flourished into a vibrant Christian community, bringing progress in education, healthcare, family-based initiatives, and the preservation of culture. Their commitment to evangelization, despite the challenges of their time, continues to inspire us today,” said Bishop Mweempwa.

He continued, “The early missionaries arrived when infrastructure was virtually non-existent. There were no roads, no schools, and no healthcare facilities, yet they persevered, trusting in God’s providence. They never gave up, for God was their principal guide and the centre of their mission. Their goal was clear: to make God of our Lord Jesus Christ known, loved, and served. We have a great lesson there of self-sacrifice and staying focused on serving the people no matter the challenges.”

In his address to the congregants, President Hakainde Hichilema expressed deep appreciation for the legacy of Chikuni Mission, emphasizing its historical and cultural significance. He stated,

“What a profound honour and privilege it is to officiate the launch of the five-year roadmap commemorating 125 years of Chikuni Mission, a place of immense historical and cultural significance, founded by the visionary French Jesuits Fr. Joseph Moreau, SJ, and Fr. Jules Torrend, SJ, 120 years ago. Their mission was made possible through the unwavering support of local pioneers; James Haatontola, Henry Jahaliso, Joseph Bbiinya, and Alfred Joojo, while Chief Moonze generously provided the land on which Chikuni Mission stands today. These Jesuit missionaries not only preached the Gospel but also laid the foundations for education and healthcare in the region. Fr. Moreau, in particular, revolutionized agriculture by introducing the ox-driven plough, transforming agriculture, and ensuring food security, not just in Chikuni but across the country. Their efforts planted the seeds of progress, fostering self-sufficiency and empowerment in communities that continue to thrive more than a century later.”

He went on to highlight the enduring impact of Chikuni Mission, stating,

“The story of Chikuni is a testament to the courage, vision, and sacrifice of men and women who dedicated their lives to ensuring a better future for others. They sowed the seeds of knowledge, faith, and resilience, so that generations to come would reap the harvest of their labor. Today, our journey to Chikuni is one of deep gratitude, to Fr. Joseph Moreau SJ, Fr. Jules Torrend SJ, Chief Moonze, and the local communities who built this mission with their hands and hearts. We also extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Jesuits and the entire Catholic Church for their unwavering commitment to sustaining and growing this dream, and their continued efforts to fostering the Church-State relations, 120 years later. May the spirit of Chikuni continue to inspire us all.”

During his visit, President Hichilema also took the opportunity to lay a wreath on the grave of Fr. Torrend SJ, a contemporary of Fr. Moreau SJ. Additionally, he paid tribute to Fr. Joseph Moreau SJ, the founder of Chikuni Mission in 1905, by visiting his grave and honouring his legacy.

The President further met with key leaders, including the Rector of Chikuni Mission, Fr. Gregory Mulobela, the Socius to the Provincial of the Jesuits in Southern Africa, Fr. Virgilio Costa, Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Mr. Jack Mwiimbu, and the Councilor of Ufwenuka Ward, Mr. Lewis Lukubi.

In his concluding remarks, Bishop Mweempwa appealed to the Catholic faithful of Monze Diocese:

“As we launch our five-year journey toward the 125th anniversary, let this be a moment of renewal. Let us recommit ourselves to listening to the Lord, who is our only hope. The journey still continues just like the disciples still had to come down from the mountain to continue the mission of witnessing to our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Chikuni Mission, through the Rector of the mission, Fr. Gregory Mulobela SJ, and Chikuni Radio, expressed its deepest gratitude to all who have supported the mission over the years. “We rejoice in the shared gifts and graces of making Chikuni Mission what it is today. We look forward with great anticipation to better things. We are greatly motivated and equally consoled by the words of St. Irenaeus: ‘The Glory of God is the Human Person Fully Alive.'”

By, Dennis Owuoche,

AJAN Communications Officer.