Bishop Chaima Commissions Bishop Allan Chamgwera Block at Nankhunda

Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Zomba, Alfred Mateyu Chaima, has officially inaugurated the Bishop Allan Chamgwera Block, a new academic administration and library building at Child Jesus Minor Seminary, Nankhunda. 

The block is named in honour of Bishop Emeritus Allan Chamgwera, a former student of the seminary.

During the ceremony, Bishop Chaima thanked God for the achievement and said the project reflects the Diocese's commitment to its 2023–2028 Strategic Plan, which promotes integral development and improved educational facilities following the seminary's centenary celebrations in 2024. 

“This new block reflects our commitment to strengthening seminary formation by providing facilities that support the intellectual, spiritual and pastoral growth of future priests and leaders of the Church and the nation,” continued Bishop Chaima.

He also urged the local community to help protect the seminary's land and property and encouraged seminarians to make full use of the new library.

The seminary's Rector, Fr. Santos Mpingu, expressed gratitude to donours, especially Beit Trust, which contributed £40,000, as well as to the Bishop, staff and students for their support. 

Constructed with both local and international funding, the new block stands prominently at the entrance to the seminary.

Child Jesus Minor Seminary, which was founded in 1924, is Malawi's first minor seminary and has produced several high profile people, priests and Bishops, including Matthias Chimole, Felix Mkhori, Allan Chamgwera, Thomas Msusa and George Tambala.