Diocese of Chikwawa

The Society of St. Vincent de Paul (SVP) in the Catholic Diocese of Chikwawa has successfully concluded its annual spiritual retreat and formation program, drawing members closer to their core mission of charity and spiritual renewal. The intensive two-day gathering commenced on the evening of Friday, September 25, and wrapped up on Saturday, September 26, 2026, at the St. Michael’s Cathedral in Chikwawa. Facilitated by the Diocesan Chaplain for SVP, Rev. Fr. Peter Gift Ntayamanja, the event brought together both parish conference officers and ordinary members from across the Diocese. The main objective of the retreat was twofold: to deepen the individual and collective spirituality of the members, and to clarify the specific roles and duties of officers and every Vincentian within their respective Parish Conferences, strictly in line with the Rule of the Society. Speaking during the formation sessions, Rev. Fr. Peter Gift Ntayamanja reminded the participants of the core identity of a Vincentian, emphasizing that true service requires both a deep spiritual foundation and a humble heart. “As Vincentians, our charity must never be a mere distribution of goods, but a reflection of Christ’s love,” said Fr. Ntayamanja. “This retreat is a timely reminder for all of us to align our service with the Rule of the Society. When we understand our roles clearly and serve with deep humility, our home visitations transform from simple social visits into profound encounters of grace and hope for the poor.” Participants expressed immense joy and a sense of spiritual rejuvenation following the event. Moving forward, the members have resolved to actively strengthen their home visitations and to live out true, humble charity within their communities.  

Trinity College of Health Sciences under the Diocese of Chikwawa, based in Fatima, Nsanje, has introduced a Certificate in Pharmacy programme, bringing the number of its accredited programmes to three. The college, is therefore, inviting applications from eligible candidates for enrolment commencing in November 2026. Speaking to the Diocese of Chikwawa Communications Department, College Principal Chifundo Chipondeponde said the new programme will help produce skilled pharmacy technicians who can support health service delivery across the country in line with the mission of the Catholic Church. He added that the introduction of the Certificate in Pharmacy marks an important step in expanding training opportunities for young people interested in the health sector while remaining faithful to the Church’s call to serve the sick and the vulnerable. Chipondeponde further said all eligible candidates are encouraged to apply so that they can be enrolled and contribute to the growing demand for qualified health professionals guided by Christian values of compassion and service. The Certificate in Pharmacy adds to the college’s existing Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery Technician and Diploma in Public Health, programs. All applicants must be aged between 16 and 45 years. Candidates for the Diploma in Nursing and Midwifery require an MSCE with four credits that include English, Biology, Chemistry or Physics plus any other science subject. Those applying for the Diploma in Public Health need an MSCE with four credits including English and any two science subjects. Entry to the Certificate in Pharmacy demands an MSCE with six credits covering English, Mathematics, Biology and Chemistry. Tuition fees are MK600, 000 per semester for the Nursing and Midwifery Diploma and the Certificate in Pharmacy, while the Public Health Diploma costs MK550, 000 per semester, and boarding with lodging is charged at MK180, 000 for every four weeks across all programs. Qualified applicants must complete the application form and deposit a non-refundable fee of MK15, 000 into the designated college bank account before submitting their documents by 2 October 2026.    

On Friday 25 September 2026 His Lordship Bishop Peter Musikuwa held an interface meeting with heads of Catholic institutions, offices and departments at Chikwawa Cathedral. The meeting was convened through the Diocesan Pastoral Secretary, Father Samson Kayuni, and brought together leaders from CCJP, CADECOM, Education, Health, Finance, Pastoral Commission, Religious Sisters and the Laity Council. His Lordship thanked the heads for the good work they continue to do in the Diocese. In his address to the delegates, the Bishop reminded all that a diocesan office-bearer is a person entrusted by the bishop with responsibility for the service of the Church and not for personal gain. He, therefore, called upon all office-bearers to consult the bishop, report regularly and practice full transparency, especially in the use of Church funds. “Diocesan offices are not personal projects nor for personal gain,” the Bishop said, stressing that every office-bearer is an ambassador of the bishop and must work for the building up of the Church of Christ. “When discharging office-duties, we should seek more the glory of God and the well-being of His people than our own glory,” he added, warning that working like non-Christians betrays Christ and His Church. The heads expressed full agreement and pledged to keep the Bishop informed of all projects so that unity and coordination may be maintained. The Bishop proposed regular sharing of annual work plans and frequent meetings of this kind. His Lordship closed by thanking the members for their service, assuring them of his prayers and calling everyone to join hands in the one mission of the Church so that no one is left behind.