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Diocese of Mpanda

About the Diocese

Diocese history

The Catholic Church officially established the Diocese of Mpanda in October 2000, following its separation from the Diocese of Sumbawanga. The first Bishop, William Pascal Kikoti, embarked on the mission of planting deep roots in this large and often remote territory. From the very beginning, the Diocese embraced the vision of being a home for faith, hope, and community development. Over the years, it has grown steadily, forming local leaders, establishing parishes, and nurturing a vibrant Catholic community dedicated to living the Gospel in daily life.

History of Evangelization

Evangelization in Mpanda has always been about walking alongside the people. The Church here believes that spreading the Good News goes beyond liturgical celebrations—it is about being present in the villages, schools, health centers, and families. Many communities in the Diocese live far from main roads, and priests, catechists, and lay missionaries have devoted themselves to ensuring that no one is left untouched by the Church’s pastoral care.

Bishop Eusebius Alfred Nzigilwa, who began leading the Diocese in 2020, has called for renewed collaboration among clergy, religious, and lay leaders to strengthen evangelization efforts. The focus is on forming vibrant Christian communities, equipping young people with leadership and spiritual formation, and bringing practical help to those in need. Initiatives such as the junior seminary in Mpanda-Ndogo provide young men with the guidance, education, and spiritual foundation to become future leaders of the Church.

Every parish and out-station has become a beacon of hope, where faith is lived through service, compassion, and solidarity. The Diocese continues to grow as a living mission—proclaiming the Gospel in action, words, and community, ensuring that every person, no matter how remote, experiences the love and joy of Christ.

Episcopal Leadership

The Diocese of Mpanda has been guided by committed and visionary shepherds:

  • William Pascal Kikoti – First Bishop, 2000 to 2012
  • Damian Kyaruzi – Apostolic Administrator, 2012 to 2014
  • Gervas John Mwasikwabhila Nyaisonga – Bishop, 2014 to 2018
  • Eusebius Alfred Nzigilwa – Bishop, 2020 to present

Statistics

The Diocesan Curia

Parishes

Priests

Diocese Address

Official Website

Cathedral

Nestled in the western reaches of Tanzania, the Diocese of Mpanda stretches across a vast and beautiful landscape of forests, lakes, and rolling hills, covering approximately 46,000 square kilometers. The Diocese is home to a vibrant population of around 730,000 people, of whom more than 360,000 are practicing Catholics. Despite its size, the Diocese is tightly knit by faith, with parishes, out-stations, and communities that actively participate in the life of the Church. The Diocese not only nurtures spiritual growth but also plays a vital role in education, health care, and social services, touching lives in every corner of the region

Bishops

Eusebius Alfred Nzigilwa