Zambian Delegation Concludes Mission at Pope Francis’s Funeral

The High level Zambian delegation led by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Minister MULAMBO HAIMBE sent to Pope FRANCIS’ funeral in Rome has concluded its mission.

And, Mr. HAIMBE has called for the continuation of the legacy of Pope FRANCIS, urging unity, love, and compassion.

Mr. HAIMBE was accompanied by Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development CHARLES MILUPI, Zambia Conference of Catholic Bishops -ZCCB- President and Archbishop of Kasama IGNATIUS CHAMA , and Bishop of Chipata Diocese GEORGE LUNGU .

The delegation represented President HAKAINDE HICHILEMA and the Zambian people.

While in Rome, the delegation joined thousands of Catholic faithful on April 25 2025 to pay their respects to Pope FRANCIS at St. Peter’s Basilica.

President HICHILEMA, in honour of Pope Francis’s life and service, declared 26 April 2025 a day of national mourning in Zambia.

Following the mourning period, the Vatican will convene a conclave between 6 and 11 May 2025 in the Sistine Chapel to elect the next pope.

A total of 135 cardinals under the age of 80 are eligible to vote.

The cardinals will remain sequestered until a successor is elected, with the traditional white smoke signaling the successful election.

This is according to a statement issued to ZNBC News by First Secretary Press at the Zambian Embassy in Rome PAMEL MULENGA.