Tag Archives: Blantyre CCAP Synod

Malawi, Religion

Blantyre CCAP Synod ushers in new leadership

Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) Blantyre Synod held its elective biennial conference on August 25, 2025, in Blantyre, bringing significant changes to the church’s leadership.

The conference saw Reverend Reynold Mmangisa emerge as the new Moderator, garnering 269 votes against his closest competitors, Humphreys Zgambo and Alex Maulana, who secured 102 and 82 votes, respectively.

In the Vice Synod Moderator position, Rev. Missy Kananji won convincingly with 239 votes, surpassing Annie Kapinda and Catherine Jailos, who garnered 125 and 81 votes, respectively.

The Deputy General Secretary position was secured by Rev. Jimmy Banda, who received 210 votes, defeating Baxton Maulidi and Master Jumbe, who obtained 176 and 78 votes, respectively.

The election process was conducted through a secret ballot, ensuring the integrity and transparency of the proceedings.

Notably, all losing candidates graciously conceded defeat and pledged their support to the newly elected leaders, fostering a sense of unity and cooperation within the church.

The newly elected leaders will play crucial roles in shaping the future of the Blantyre Synod, guiding its spiritual and administrative direction.

With their victory, they have been entrusted with the responsibility of advancing the church’s mission and serving its congregation.

The CCAP Blantyre Synod, established in 1876, is one of the largest and most influential Christian denominations in Malawi, boasting over 1.2 million members across 600 congregations.

The synod’s history dates back to the Church of Scotland missionaries, and it has since grown into a prominent Protestant denomination in the region.

As the new leadership takes office, they will face the challenge of addressing the spiritual and administrative needs of the synod’s vast membership.

Their leadership will be crucial in navigating the complexities of modern church governance while remaining true to the synod’s core values and mission.

Malawi, Religion

CCAP Blantyre Synod leadership disowns church pastors for endorsing Mutharika

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The leadership of CCAP Blantyre Synod has disowned church pastors who endorsed opposition Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) leader and former President Peter Mutharika for September 16 polls.

The development comes barely hours after 71 pastors went illegally to pray for Mutharika at his House in Mangochi.

In press statement issued on Saturday, February 22, 2025 signed by Humphreys Zgambo and Anderson Juma Synod Moderator and Secretary General respectively, said the church is not part of the pastors’ endorsement.

The Synod therefore assured the nation that the church remains committed to serve the public without favoring a particular individual for the forthcoming general elections in September 16, 2025.

“The Management of Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) has noted with deep concern the visit made by some few ministers to the residence of former President. Dr Arthur Peter Mutharika, in Mangochi. The statements made at the function and attributed to the Synod or its leadership are not only false but also unfortunate and concerning.

“The Synod would like to publicly confirm that it neither sanctioned, approved nor in any way endorsed the said visit. The ministers concerned did so in their individual capacity and for their own personal interests. They did not represent the Synod, its leadership or their individual congregations and congregants,” reads the statement in part.

The Synod adds, “The statements made at the function are personal views of the speakers and do not in anyway reflect the views of the Synod.

“The General Secretary is the only official spokesperson of the Synod as mandated by our Constitution Article 4.5.2 (r). The same article provides that in the absence of the General Secretary the Deputy shall be the spokesperson”.

The church adds, “The Synod is aware of the discomfort that the visit has caused amongst its Christians and other stakeholders. We would like to assure you all that the Synod shall always remain non-partisan as it adheres to its constitutional mandate of proclaiming the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ; the preservation of the truth; and the promotion of social righteousness and well-being of mankind according to the Scriptures and Presbyterian/Reformed Church tradition (Isaiah 33:22, Acts 5:29, Rom 13:1-2, 1 Pet 2:13-17). John Calvin (1509-1564 Institute of Christian Religion) once said.”

“The Church and State as servants of Christ, two interdependent entities each receives its own authority from the Sovereign God.”

The Church concludes, “Blantyre Synod remains a faithful servant to God, the partner of Government and other development partners and shall jealously guard against external forces that aim to antagonise our ministers and our Christians, especially during this time as we approach the General Elections”.

Development, Malawi

Blantyre CCAP Synod lauds Chakwera on Lilongwe road infrastructure development, Chilima’s death inquiry

MaraviPost

LILONGWE-(MaraviPost)-The Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP), Blantyre Synod, has applauded the current government for the remarkable achievements despite challenges rocking the country.

In a pastoral letter released on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 which General Secretary Reverend Anderson Chulu and Synod moderator Reverend Humphrey Zgambo has signed has highlighted road construction works in Lilongwe.

The Synod has also praised Chakwera on Commission of Inquiry for the death of former Vice President Saulos Chilima as pivotal roles the current administration has achieved since taking over Government.

“The road construction works currently taking place in Lilongwe are worthy celebrating, and it is an achievement proud of.

“We are hopeful that once completed, the road will transform the face of the city and the nation,” reads the Pastoral letter in part.

The Synod commends, “CCAP Blantyre Synod would also like to applaud the government for instituting a commission of inquiry into the death of former Vice President Saulos Chilima. We believe that without doubt, the findings from the Commission would provide healing to the family members and nation at large”.

The letter has also made an appeal to some of the concerns the country is experiencing which include political violence, police unprofessionalism, war against corruption, lack of drugs and medicines in public hospitals, persistent fuel scarcity, continued forex shortages and economic challenges as well as hunger and non-availability of maize in admarc depots.

The Synod is therefore calling for members in all congregations to register to vote for the forth coming general elections as it is everyone’s right to participate in the political affairs of the country.

“We believe the concerns will be dealt with the urgency they deserve as they are committed to working with the government in addressing social economic challenges besetting the country,” reads the pastoral letter in part.

Malawi, Politics

Blantyre Synod chides Chakwera government on Malawians sufferings

MaraviPost

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP) has rebuked hardly on President Lazarus Chakwera’s government over Malawians suffering from social-economic challenges.

In Pastoral letter issued on Tuesday, November 19, 2024 says this follows the synod’s officials, under administration conference, met in Blantyre last week in one of their quarterly meetings and, thereafter, produced a statement on the country’s state of governance.

In the statement, the synod has raised seven issues which it wants the authorities to work on.

The synod expresses displeasure at, among other things, continued forex shortage and economic and persistent fuel scarcity.

“We have observed that life for the majority of Malawians is being threatened by the looming hunger due to non-availability of maize stocks in Admarc [Agricultural Development and Marketing Corporation] depots. While the government continues to paint a rosy picture of the situation, we have observed, through our research, that on the ground the hunger situation has reached alarming levels,” reads the letter in part signed by synod general secretary Anderson Juma and synod moderator Humphreys Zgambo.

The synod also says it is not amused with forex supply and other economic challenges.

“We have observed, with concern, the continued and unresolved economic challenges manifested in the rising prices of basic commodities due to, among other factors, scarcity of forex,” the synod says.

On fuel scarcity, the synod observes that it is hindering socio-economic development activities in the country.

“Despite promises from the Executive to improve the situation, there seems to be no end [of problems] in sight. We would like, therefore, to ask the government to provide sustainable solutions to the situation,” the letter says.

The synod also says it has noted with regret some acts of political violence as the country draws closer to the September 16 2025 Local Government, Parliamentary and Presidential Elections.

“It is also quite disturbing to note that perpetrators of the violence have been left scot-free. We, as church leaders, are appealing to political leaders on both sides of the divide to desist from hate speeches which fuel violence and from using young men, mostly unemployed, for their own selfish ends.”

The church has also tackled the issue of unavailability of medicines in public hospitals and also weighed in on the issue of how the country is doing in the fight against corruption.

Blantyre Synod rebukes Chakwera

The synod has also acknowledged positives registered by the current administration.

Synod therefore commends the government for road construction works it is undertaking in Lilongwe saying, if completed, the infrastructure would transform the capital city’s landscape.

It further applauds the government for instituting a commission of inquiry into the death of former vice president Saulos Chilima and eight others, saying findings would help in healing wounds in family members’ and Malawians’ hearts.

Government spokesperson Moses Kunkuyu has not commented on the pastoral letter.

Religion

Blantyre CCAP Synod launches fundraiser to repay MK2bn loan

Maravi Post Reporter

By Twink Jones Gadama

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-In a bid to overcome its dire financial situation, the Blantyre CCAP Synod, a prominent church in Malawi, has embarked on a massive fundraising campaign.

The church aims to raise a staggering MK2 billion to repay a substantial loan accumulated during the tenure of the former leadership.

The campaign has raised eyebrows among congregants, as there is a lack of transparency surrounding the loan’s purpose and expenditure.

This feature explores the circumstances leading to this fundraising initiative and delves into the concerns of CCAP Blantyre Synod’s members.

Current Financial Conundrum

CCAP Blantyre Synod is no stranger to financial struggles. However, the current leadership, upon assumption of their roles, discovered the staggering debt owed by the church.

The loan, totaling two billion Malawi Kwacha, had been incurred during Reverend Dr. Billy Gama’s term as the General Secretary of the church.

The news came as a shock to the congregants, as there was no tangible evidence indicating how the funds had been utilized.

Appeal Strategy and Fundraising Campaign Launch

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, CCAP Blantyre Synod has introduced a special appeal strategy to its congregations.

This strategy aims to mobilize church members to raise the funds required to repay the substantial loan.

The leadership sees this as the only viable solution to tackle the accumulated debt effectively and prevent further financial woes.

However, this fundraising campaign has sparked concerns among the churchgoers, who seek transparency and accountability for the immense sum being sought.

Members of CCAP Blantyre Synod have expressed their demand for an audit report to ascertain how the two billion Malawi Kwacha had been utilized in the past.

They believe that before donating further funds, they deserve clarity on the previous expenditure and whether it was in alignment with the church’s values and objectives.

Challenges to Transparency

One of the primary challenges in obtaining transparency lies in the lack of documentation and records that validate the expenditure of the two billion Malawi Kwacha.

The absence of such evidence has intensified the skepticism among congregants regarding the loan’s purpose.

Consequently, church members are questioning the accountability of the former leadership and seeking answers.

Reverend Dr. Billy Gama’s Role

Reverend Dr. Billy Gama was at the helm of CCAP Blantyre Synod when the loan was acquired.

As the General Secretary of the church, he held a significant level of responsibility for the financial management and decision-making processes.

While there is no suggestion of impropriety on his part, the lack of clarity surrounding the loan’s expenditure has placed Gama under scrutiny.

Congregants are eager to understand his involvement, any potential mismanagement, or any lapses in financial oversight that might have contributed to the church’s current predicament.

Importance of Audit Report

To alleviate concerns and restore faith among the congregants, a comprehensive audit report is urgently needed.

The audit should cover the period during which the loan was incurred and highlight the expenditures made during this time.

A thorough examination will reveal if the funds were used appropriately, or if mismanagement or irregularities occurred.

This report will be crucial for the church’s leadership to address the concerns of its members and ensure transparency moving forward.

Rebuilding Trust and Confidence

Recognizing the importance of rebuilding trust and confidence, the current Blantyre CCAP Synod leadership is committed to addressing the concerns raised by church members.

They acknowledge the need to provide assurance and clarity surrounding the two billion Malawi Kwacha expenditure and are actively working towards obtaining the requested audit report.

By doing so, they hope to enhance transparency, regain congregants’ trust, and ensure the financial stability of the church going forward.

Conclusion

CCAP Blantyre Synod’s fundraising campaign to repay a two billion Malawi Kwacha loan has placed the church at a critical crossroads.

The lack of transparency regarding the loan’s utilization has raised concerns among congregants, fueling the need for an in-depth audit to shed light on past expenditures.

The leadership acknowledges these concerns and is dedicated to obtaining the requested audit report for further examination.

Rebuilding trust and confidence within the congregation is vital to ensure the future financial stability of CCAP Blantyre Synod.

Malawi, Religion

Billy Gama loses Blantyre CCAP Synod General Secretary post to Anderson Juma

Maravi Post Reporter

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP)on Monday, August 28, 2023, ushered in a new leadership, with Reverend Anderson Juma now the General Secretary; Reverend Humphrey Zgambo, the new Moderator; and Reverend Annie Kapinda now holding the position of Vice Synod Moderator.

Juma, of Chiradzulu CCAP, defeated former general secretary Billy Gama by getting 192 votes against the latter’s 186.

Former Moderator Edna Navaya has lost to Zgambo after getting 166 votes, against the victor’s 237.

On the position of Vice Synod Moderator, Reverend Enerst Mpate’s 169 votes did not match up to Kapinda’s 230 votes.

The elections took place at the synod’s 34th Biennial Assembly at St Micheal and All Angels Multipurpose Hall in Blantyre.

Malawi, Politics, Religion

Opportunist Blantyre Synod’s Billy Gama adamant on Chakwera’s two terms

Maravi Post Reporter

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-The Blantyre Synod General Secretary Reverend Billy Gama has backed his statement made on Saturday, March 26, 2022 that attracted reactions from Malawians regarding Chakwera ruling Malawi for two terms.

In an interview with Times Radio on Monday, March 28, 2022, Gama said his statement during the graduation ceremony at the University of Blantyre Synod was of the view that the constitution of Malawi permits presidential candidates to run for two terms.

Opportunist Billy Gama

“I said that statement with a clear conscious considering our constitution permits a presidential candidate to run for two terms. It is up to Malawians and Malawi Congress Party (MCP) to allow the president Chakwera to run for a second term.

“Anybody can interpret the statement anyhow but I don’t regret saying what I said,” said Gama.

Gama added that Blantyre Synod has always been working in partnership with government in development and his statement does not indicate that he personally desires to see President Chakwera ruling beyond the first term.

He also said his remarks were not an indication that the Synod is endorsing Chakwera’s desire to run for second term but only from his understanding of the constitution of the country. He has distanced himself from any political connection with the president.

Gama’s remarks comes amid ongoing mass criticism on Chakwera presidency over failed promises and crippled economy which has resulted in rising cost of living in the two years in power.

Prior to this, Second Vice President of the ruling Malawi Congress Party (MCP) Harry Mkandawire disclosed that MCP has endorsed Chakwera as its candidate in the 2025 presidential elections.

President Lazarus Chakwera’s Tonse government is failing to meet Malawians expectations coupled with high cost of living just two years in power.

Politics, Religion

Malawi’s business mogul Thom Mpinganjira urges Blantyre CCAP Synod to refrain from politics

Maravi Post Reporter

By John Saukira

BLANTYRE-(MaraviPost)-Business mogul Thom Mpinganjira has called on Blantyre synod of the CCAP to go back to its mission of saving souls for Christ and desist from worldly influences which he says have engulfed it.

The statement comes hot amid concerns that the synod is practicing partisan politics instead of preaching word of God. 

For instance, during the campaign period, Blantyre Synod of the Church of Central Africa Presbyterian (CCAP)  suspended four clerics who represented concerned church ministers for holding a press briefing without the synod leadership’s consent.

The four were Reverend Donnex Mateyu Ngalande of Chileka CCAP who is also coordinator of the group, Reverend Dezio Maloya of Sharpevale CCAP in Ntcheu, Reverend Frank Mkwezalamba of Madziabango in Blantyre Rural Presbytery and  Reverend Duncan Kananji of Blantyre City Presbytery.

But Speaking at the Synod’s Biennial Conference at HHI in Blantyre, Mpinganjira who was guest of honour asked the new team when elected to work on “rebuilding the church back to its original mission and not involve itself in party  politics and other irrelevant influences”.

“The CCAP Church, like all other Churches in Malawi and on earth, has been rocked and ravaged by politics, racism, tribalism and all other “ism’s” that one can think of. And has therefore suffered from what I call “Mission drift” meaning it has drifted away from its mission focusing on the ism’s and internal fighting. This, by the way is exactly the case with my Seventhday Adventist Church.

This year’s theme is therefore perfect. Rebuild the CCAP, take it back to the Great Commission as given by the Master in Matthew 28:16-20. That rebuilding starts now in this Assembly and the men and women of God must leave this place fired up by the help of God and by His Grace,” urges Mpinganjira.

During the event, Mpinganjira donated MK5 million to Blantyre Synod to assist in the operations of the church.

The meeting was being held under the theme; “Rebuilding the CCAP Blantyre Synod together with the help of God”.

Mpinganjira therefore urged CCAP Blantyre Synod to start spiritual rebuilding and return to the Great Commission (Matthew 28 vs 16 to 20) which calls believers to go to all the world to preach the gospel.