“If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.” (Romans 14:8)
One of the greatest figures of the Church in Southern Africa has fallen silent forever. With profound consternation, IMBISA learned of the death of Arch. Zacarias Kamwenho, a victim of a prolonged illness, which occurred on the night of May 29, 2026, at the Maria Tonha “Pedalé” Hospital in Luanda, Angola.
A brilliant and dedicated Pastor, a man of unwavering faith and tireless servant of the Gospel, Arch. Zacarias leaves an immeasurable legacy of wisdom and commitment to IMBISA and to the people of God in the region. He was honoured as the sole surviving founder of IMBISA in September 2025, in the Kingdom of Eswatini, during the celebration of IMBISA’s 50th anniversary. With his passing, the cycle of Bishops from the era of Angola’s independence and the founding of IMBISA ends.
Arch. Zacarias Kamwenho, Dean of CEAST and of the IMBISA region, was, until then, Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Lubango. He was born in Tchimbundu-Bailundo, Huambo province, Angola, on September 5, 1934.
He was ordained a priest on July 9, 1961.
Appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Luanda on August 26, 1974 and ordained a bishop on November 23, 1974.
From 1975 to 1995, he was Bishop of Novo Redondo – Sumbe, as its first bishop.
From 1995 to 1997, he was Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Lubango.
From 1997 to 2009, Archbishop of Lubango.
The European Parliament awarded him the Sakharov Prize in 2001, recognizing his firm, impartial and persistent struggle for peace, democracy and human rights in Angola. Until his death, he was Archbishop Emeritus of the Archdiocese of Lubango.
At this moment of profound sorrow, but also of hope in the Lord who conquered death, IMBISA extends its deepest condolences to CEAST, the Archdiocese of Lubango and Huambo, the Diocese of Sumbe (of which he was the first Bishop), the Franciscan Sisters of the Visitation (the Congregation he founded), his family, friends, and all those who feel touched by his passing.
May the Lord reward him for his tireless work for the IMBISA region and may he rest in peace!