President Hakainde Hichilema joined the Chikuni Mission community in Monze District, Southern Province, to commemorate the mission’s 120th anniversary, honoring its long-standing contributions to education, agriculture, and healthcare in Zambia.
Upon his arrival, President Hichilema toured Mukanzubo and the Cardoner prayer garden before proceeding to Kasika Cemetery. There, he paid tribute to the mission’s founders, laying wreaths on the graves of Fr. Joseph Moreau, SJ, and Fr. Jules Torrend, SJ—pioneering Catholic priests whose work laid the foundation for Chikuni’s transformative impact.
The President later officiated the launch of a five-year roadmap leading to Chikuni Mission’s 125th anniversary. In his address, he emphasized the historical and cultural significance of the mission, calling for unity, love, and peace as fundamental pillars of national development.
A Legacy of Faith, Education, and Progress
Founded in 1904 by French Jesuit priests Fr. Joseph Moreau and Fr. Jules Torrend, Chikuni Mission has played a vital role in Zambia’s social and educational landscape. Their mission was supported by local pioneers such as James Haatontola, Henry Jahaliso, Joseph Bbiinya, and Alfred Joojo, while Chief Moonze provided the land that enabled their vision to take root.
Beyond spreading the Gospel, the Jesuits at Chikuni established institutions that continue to serve communities today. Fr. Moreau introduced the ox-driven plough, revolutionizing agriculture and ensuring food security in the region. His efforts fostered self-sufficiency and economic empowerment, leaving an indelible mark on Zambian agriculture.
Even after Zambia’s independence, Chikuni Mission remained a cornerstone of national development. Jesuit scholars contributed to the founding of the University of Zambia, serving as lecturers, deans, and professors. Institutions such as Canisius College and Charles Lwanga College, both affiliated with the mission, have continued to shape the nation’s leadership across various fields.
President Hichilema commended the Catholic Church and the Jesuits for their unwavering commitment to Chikuni’s vision, recognizing their role in strengthening Church-State relations and fostering national progress.
“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,” said President Hichilema.
As the nation embarks on activities leading to Chikuni’s quasquicentennial (125th anniversary), the mission’s legacy continues to inspire. The dedication of its founders serves as a guiding force, ensuring that education, faith, and development remain at the heart of its mission for generations to come.