President Hakainde Hichilema has delegated representatives to attend the funeral of Pope Francis, Pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church, in Vatican City.
In a statement issued to RCV News in Lusaka today, Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Permanent Secretary International Relations and Cooperation Etambuyu Gundersen said the delegation comprises Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe and Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development, Charles Milupi.
She said others include Archbishop of Kasama and president of the Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops, Reverend Ignatius Chama, and Bishop of Chipata, Reverend George Lungu.
President Hichilema has expressed his profound sorrow on the passing of the Pope and has described him as a man of deep humility and compassion, who led the global Catholic Church with integrity and devotion.
Ms. Gundersen said the delegation is expected to return to Zambia immediately following the State Funeral.
Pope Francis passed away on Monday, 21st April 2025 at the age of 88 and the Funeral Mass is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 26th April 2025.
By Margaret Mwanza
