A delegation of Seventh-day Adventist Church leaders from the Northern and Southern Zambia Union Conferences, along with representatives from the Southern Africa Indian Ocean Division, met with the Speaker of Zambia’s National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, in Lusaka.

The visit, led by Adventist pastor Chifumbe Kapenya and accompanied by SID Communication Director Pako Mokgwane, included leaders from the Church’s Communication and Public Affairs and Religious Liberty departments. According to organizers, the meeting aimed to offer encouragement, strengthen institutional relationships, and reaffirm the Church’s commitment to supporting fundamental freedoms, including freedom of worship and assembly.

In his remarks, Kapenya highlighted Zambia’s record of upholding human rights, particularly freedoms of conscience and religion, which have enabled the Church to operate and contribute to national development.

Mokgwane congratulated Mutti on her appointment as the country’s first female Speaker of the National Assembly and emphasized the Church’s support for initiatives that promote human dignity. He also highlighted global programs of the Church, including the enditnow campaign addressing gender-based violence, health outreach initiatives, and Global Youth Day.

Quoting Romans 13:7, Mokgwane underscored the importance of respect and support for civic leaders, noting that such engagement reflects the Church’s commitment to responsible citizenship and cooperation with public institutions.

In response, Mutti expressed appreciation for the visit and the encouragement offered by the delegation. She acknowledged the Adventist Church as a valued partner in national development, particularly in the areas of education and healthcare.

She referenced institutions such as Rusangu University and the Adventist Eye Hospital as examples of the Church’s contribution to the country.

The meeting concluded with a prayer for the Speaker and her team. Several officials from the National Assembly were also in attendance, representing departments including procedure, public information, research, and parliamentary services.

This article was provided by the Northern Zambia Union Conference in the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division.