02/06/2026
REFORMED CHURCH IN ZAMBIA
(ESTABLISHED IN 1899)
SYNOD HEADQUARTERS
Plot 3695 Mwaleshi Road, Olympia Park
P.O. Box 38255
LUSAKA - ZAMBIA
Tel: +260 211 295369
E-mail: [email protected]
Website: www.rczsynod.org.zm
Your Ref:
Our Ref: Tuesday, 2nd June 2026
CONDOLENCE STATEMENT
THE REFORMED CHURCH IN ZAMBIA MOURNS THE
PASSING OF HIS ROYAL HIGHNESS PARAMOUNT CHIEF MPEZENI IV
The RCZ joins the nation in mourning His royal highness, Ngwenyama Paramount
Chief Mpezeni IV who passed away on 30th May 2026. We are deeply saddened by
his passing and therefore stand in solidarity with the Ngoni Royal Family and Royal
Establishment. His loss is deeply felt as his leadership, wisdom, and devotion to his
people touched countless lives, even beyond his chiefdom.
The RCZ is profoundly saddened with the passing of Ngwenyama IV because its
history is deeply intertwined with the Ngoni Chiefdom. Chief Mpezeni, in 1899,
invited and welcomed Dutch missionaries from the then Orange Free State in South
Africa to establish mission work in his chiefdom. As a result, the first congregation
was founded at Magwero, Chipata, on 5th July 1899. From that time to the present,
successive chiefs, including Ngwenyama IV who was installed on 19th June 1982 at
Ephendukeni Palace and reigned for 44 years (1982–2026), have been instrumental in
supporting the growth of the RCZ within their chiefdoms. Consequently, many RCZ
congregations are firmly established across the Ngoni Chiefdom, making use of
traditional land both as sacred ground for worship and as a vital resource for
economic sustenance.
The reign of Ngwenyama IV was marked by cultural preservation, community-
focused development, and national recognition. His leadership, vision, and
commitment to progress will be greatly missed not only by the Ngoni people but by
the entire nation of Zambia. His legacy of fostering unity, progress, and faith will
continue to inspire generations.
The Reformed Church in Zambia offers prayers for strength, consolation, and comfort
for the Royal Family, the Ngoni Royal Establishment, and the people of Zambia
during this difficult time. Indeed, the great tree has fallen.
May his soul rest in eternal peace.
FOR AND ON BEHALF OF THE REFORMED CHURCH IN ZAMBIA
✍🏾Rev Isaiah Munali
General secretary
