Diocese of Mafinga – Tanzania Epspacal Cofference

About the Diocese

Diocese history

The Diocese of Mafinga was created from the territory of the Diocese of Iringa in late 2023. Its establishment was aimed at improving local pastoral services and responding to the spiritual needs of Catholics in the area. The first bishop was consecrated in early 2024, marking the official start of diocesan leadership and independent administration.

History of Evangelization

Catholic missionary work in the Mafinga region began in the early 20th century. Missionaries concentrated on spreading the faith, establishing schools, and providing healthcare services. Over the decades, these efforts gradually expanded, leading to a growing Catholic community and the eventual creation of a dedicated diocese to better serve the faithful.

Episcopal Leadership

Bishop Vincent Cosmas Mwagala

Date of Birth: December 11, 1973
Ordained Priest: July 11, 2007
Consecrated Bishop: March 19, 2024
Tenure: From December 2023 to present

Bishop Mwagala is the first leader of the Diocese of Mafinga, guiding its development and overseeing pastoral activities within the region.

Statistics

The Diocesan Curia

Parishes

Priests

Diocese Address

Official Website

Cathedral

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Mafinga is a relatively new ecclesiastical territory in Tanzania. Covering an area of about 11,016 square kilometers, it was officially established in December 2023 to strengthen pastoral care in the region. The diocese is home to roughly 617,770 people, with approximately 236,299 identifying as Catholics, making up about 38% of the population. It comprises 17 parishes and falls under the Archdiocese of Mbeya, following the Roman Rite.

Bishops

Bishop Vincent Cosmas Mwagala