The Catholic Church in Zambia is mourning the death of Most Rev. Telesphore George Mpundu, the Emeritus Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lusaka, who has passed away.
According to a very urgent notice issued by the Archbishop of Lusaka, Most Rev. Dr. Alick Banda, Archbishop Mpundu’s death has brought deep sorrow to the faithful, clergy, religious communities, and people of goodwill across the country.
In the official notice dated 15th May 2026, Archbishop Banda described the late Archbishop Mpundu as a church leader who served with distinction and dedication throughout his long ministry.
The notice states that Archbishop Mpundu was born on 21st May 1947 at Kapatu Mission and was ordained to the priesthood in 1972.
He later rose through the ranks of the Catholic Church and was installed as Bishop in 1987, serving as Bishop of Mbala (now Mpika) for 19 years before being appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Lusaka in 2004.
In 2006, Archbishop Mpundu officially became the Archbishop of Lusaka, a position he held until his retirement in 2018.
During his episcopal ministry, Archbishop Mpundu also served multiple terms as President of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB) and became widely respected for his strong voice on governance, social justice, and national matters.
The notice highlights that Archbishop Mpundu courageously spoke on issues of truth and justice while shepherding the Catholic faithful with compassion and wisdom.
Following the announcement, Archbishop Banda has called on all parishes and religious communities in the Archdiocese of Lusaka to offer a Mass of Suffrage for the repose of the soul of the late Emeritus Archbishop.
The Catholic Church has also announced that the funeral programme will be communicated in due course.
Meanwhile, tributes are expected to pour in from Catholics, clergy, national leaders, and members of the public who admired Archbishop Mpundu’s contribution to the Church and Zambia at large.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
