Tanzania's Prime Minister, Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba, has been formally installed as a Lay Canon of the Anglican Church of Tanzania. This historic event took place on October 4, 2026, at Christ the King Cathedral in Chanika, Tanga. The installation ceremony was part of a Holy Mass where Canon Charles Mika Lundu was consecrated as the first Bishop of the Diocese of Handeni. Dr. Nchemba represented President Samia Suluhu Hassan at the ceremony, highlighting the government's close relationship with religious institutions.
The installation of Dr. Nchemba as a Lay Canon marks a significant milestone, as he becomes the first person from outside the Anglican denomination to hold this honorary position. The title was awarded to him by the Anglican Church of Tanzania under Archbishop Dr. Maimbo Mndolwa on June 21, 2026. This recognition was given in appreciation of his efforts in mobilizing support for church development and investment projects. Dr. Nchemba's new role underscores the government's commitment to fostering collaboration with religious institutions.
During the ceremony, Dr. Nchemba pledged the government's continued support for religious institutions in carrying out their spiritual and social responsibilities. He emphasized that the government has taken measures to strengthen cooperation, including legislative changes to facilitate access to charitable status for religious institutions. Additionally, the government has addressed tax debts and granted tax exemptions on some services provided by these institutions. This move aims to enhance the role of religious institutions in societal development.
Dr. Nchemba also urged parents and religious institutions to work together in strengthening the upbringing of children, emphasizing that both girls and boys face challenges that require joint efforts from families, communities, and religious institutions. He called on religious leaders to continue praying for Tanzania, ensuring peace, stability, unity, and solidarity. The Prime Minister's address highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and religious institutions in addressing social issues.
The installation ceremony was attended by various dignitaries, including government officials and members of the Anglican Church. Dr. Nchemba's installation as a Lay Canon follows in the footsteps of other government leaders who have received the honor, including retired Speaker Job Ndugai, retired Chief Justice Augustino Ramadhani, Prof Palamagamba Kabudi, Parliamentary Secretary Baraka Leonard, and Agriculture Ministry Permanent Secretary Gerald Mweli. This honor reflects Dr. Nchemba's contributions to the development of the church and the country.
The relationship between the government and the Anglican Church has been strengthened through various initiatives, including the Prime Minister's representation of the President at the ceremony. This close collaboration is expected to continue, with the government providing support for religious institutions in their charitable and social activities. The installation of Dr. Nchemba as a Lay Canon is seen as a symbol of this strengthened partnership.
The event concluded with a call for continued cooperation between the government and religious institutions. Dr. Nchemba's new role as a Lay Canon is expected to further enhance this collaboration, promoting the welfare of Tanzanians through joint efforts in spiritual and social development. The Anglican Church of Tanzania has recognized Dr. Nchemba's contributions, and this honor is a testament to the government's commitment to working with religious institutions for the betterment of society.
Key points
- Dr. Mwigulu Nchemba becomes the first non-Anglican to be installed as a Lay Canon of the Anglican Church of Tanzania.
- The installation ceremony took place at Christ the King Cathedral in Chanika, Tanga, on October 4, 2026.
- Dr. Nchemba pledged the government's continued support for religious institutions in carrying out their spiritual and social responsibilities.
