The Catholic Archdiocese of Lusaka, Zambia, has announced the death of Archbishop Emeritus Telesphore George Mpundu (1947–2026).
In a statement, Most Rev. Dr. Alick Banda disclosed that the Archdiocese regrets to announce the death of Archbishop Emeritus Telesphore George Mpundu (1947–2026).
Archbishop Banda described him as a courageous shepherd who dedicated his life to the service of the Church and the nation.
“He was widely respected for his front advocacy on governance, social justice and national affairs, courageously speaking out on matters of truth and justice while shepherding the faithful with compassion,” Archbishop Banda stated.
Eulogising him for the dogged role he played in the Church in Africa, the statement underlined that His Grace, Emeritus Archbishop Mpundu was “a distinguished shepherd of the Catholic Church in Zambia.”
Archbishop Emeritus Telesphore George Mpundu (1947–2026).
The Archdiocese underscored that “He leaves behind a legacy of pastoral service, leadership, and advocacy for justice.”
Recall that Archbishop Mpuntun served multiple times as president of the Zambian Conference of Catholic Bishops (ZCCB).
On its part, the Malawi Conference of Catholic Bishops emphasised that Mpundu was “a prominent church leader known for speaking out on justice, governance and social issues.
“Mpuntun, who served as the Archbishop of Lusaka from 2006 until his retirement in 2018, died after more than five decades of priestly ministry,” the Archdiocese noted.
Born on 21 May 1947 at Kapatu Mission, the deceased prelate was ordained a priest in 1972 and was appointed Bishop of Mbala, now Mpika Diocese, for 19 years before becoming Coadjutor Archbishop of Lusaka in 2004.
According to the Archdiocese of Lusaka, the burial programme would be announced later.
Editor’s Note: All photos are courtesy of the Archdiocese of Lusaka – ADL 1st.
