President Lazarus Chakwera on Thursday welcomed leaders of the Anglican Council of Malawi (ACM) to Sanjika Palace, where they formally introduced the Bishop Designate of the Diocese of Lake Malawi, Rt. Rev. Daniel Kalonga.
The meeting comes ahead of Bishop Kalonga’s consecration ceremony set for Sunday, 13 July, at Silver Stadium in Lilongwe—a service which President Chakwera is expected to attend.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Rt. Rev. Bishop William Mchombo praised the President for his steady support for faith communities and his regular participation in religious events. “When a leader walks with the people, the people walk with him,” said Bishop Mchombo, describing President Chakwera’s leadership as a rare blend of humility and vision.
He also applauded Chakwera’s bold stand against political violence, noting that “leadership should be about service, not strife.” The Bishop commended the President’s efforts in improving infrastructure and for investing in youth and women empowerment—key pillars of long-term development.
President Chakwera, in turn, stressed that Malawi’s youth are the nation’s backbone and must be equipped for the future. “If we fail to prepare them, we prepare to fail,” he said, adding that strategic infrastructure—not rushed projects—delivers lasting results.
Bishop Kalonga, who has served as Parish Priest and Vicar General, holds qualifications in Higher Management and is expected to bring both spiritual depth and administrative experience to his new role.
As Malawi prepares for Sunday’s big occasion, the church and state appear united in their mission to nurture a nation where leadership, like good rain, falls evenly on all.