The Jesuit Southern Africa Province (SAP) has, between 2021 and 2026, celebrated a series of significant milestones that reflect its vibrant growth, deep missionary heritage, and expanding regional presence. From its establishment to major anniversaries, historic visits, and continental gatherings, the Province continues to chart a path of faith and service across Southern Africa.

Birth of a New Province

The Southern Africa Province was officially established on 25 March 2021, a landmark moment that unified Jesuit missions across Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, and South Africa. The inauguration was marked by thanksgiving celebrations across the region, with Jesuits emphasizing collaboration and renewed missionary zeal. At the time, Jesuit leadership noted that the creation of SAP was “a sign of hope for deeper unity and a more effective response to the pastoral and social needs of the region”.

Five Years of Growth and Mission

On 25 March 2026, the Province celebrated its 5^th anniversary, reflecting on its journey of growth and consolidation. The celebrations, held in various Jesuit communities, were marked by liturgical gatherings, apostolic reflections, and renewed commitments to Jesuit priorities. The SAP Provincial highlighted that “the first five years have been a time of laying foundations, now is the moment to deepen our mission and expand our reach, especially among the youth and the marginalized”.

Fr Arturo Sosa Visits SAP

A defining moment came in July 2023, when the Superior General of the Society of Jesus, Arturo Sosa, visited the Province. During his visit to Lusaka, he presided over the first-ever SAP Province Assembly, bringing together Jesuits and collaborators from across the region. Addressing the assembly, Fr Sosa urged members to embrace discernment and collaboration, stating: “The mission of the Society today calls for openness, courage, and a willingness to walk with the people, especially those on the margins.”

Kasungu Parish Marks Silver Jubilee

In 2025, St Joseph Parish in Kasungu, Malawi, celebrated its Silver Jubilee (25 years) with a strong call for growth and renewal. The celebrations included a vibrant Eucharistic celebration attended by clergy, religious, and lay faithful. Church leaders encouraged the faithful to build on the foundations laid over the years. One of the speakers emphasized: “This jubilee is not just about looking back, but about committing ourselves to a future of deeper faith and stronger communities.”

Chikuni Mission Celebrates 120 Years

Also in 2025, Chikuni Mission in Zambia marked 120 years since its founding in 1905. Known for its contributions to education, agriculture, and media, the mission remains a cornerstone of Jesuit work in the region. During the celebrations, speakers highlighted Chikuni’s role in integral human development. A Jesuit representative noted: “For 120 years, Chikuni has been a place where faith meets action – educating minds, forming consciences, and transforming communities.”

Fonte Boa Mission at 80 Years

In 2024, Fonte Boa Mission in Mozambique celebrated 80 years of faith and resilience, a milestone marked by the consecration of a new church building. The event symbolized renewal and hope for the local Catholic community. In his homily, the presiding celebrant described the new church as “a sign of living faith, built not only with bricks, but with the sacrifices and prayers of generations”.

Makumbi Mission Marks Centenary

In 2023, Makumbi Catholic Mission in Zimbabwe celebrated 100 years since its founding in 1923. The centenary brought together thousands of faithful in a joyful celebration of a century of evangelization and education. Speakers at the event praised the mission’s enduring legacy, noting: “Makumbi has stood as a beacon of faith and learning, shaping generations and contributing to the life of the Church and society.”

Expanding Frontiers: Botswana and Lesotho

The Province has also extended its pastoral outreach in recent years. In January 2026, the SAP Provincial made an important visit to Botswana, engaging with collaborators and strengthening relationships with local communities. This was followed by a historic first visit to Lesotho in February 2026, marking a new step in expanding Jesuit presence. During the visit, the Provincial emphasized the importance of accompaniment and collaboration, stating: “Our mission is to walk with the people, to listen, and to respond to their deepest needs.”

SAP Hosts Continental Gathering in Livingstone

In April 2026, SAP reached another milestone by hosting Jesuit Provincials from across Africa and Madagascar in Livingstone. This marked the first time the Province hosted such a high-level continental meeting. The gathering provided an opportunity for shared reflection and planning. Participants highlighted the importance of unity in mission, with one Provincial noting: “Our strength lies in walking together, sharing our experiences, and responding as one body to the needs of our continent.”

A Province Looking Ahead

From its establishment in 2021 to its expanding mission in 2026, the Southern Africa Province continues to grow as a dynamic force in the Church. These milestones reflect not only achievements of the past but also a commitment to a future rooted in faith, justice, and service. As SAP moves forward, it remains guided by its mission to serve the people of Southern Africa with dedication, creativity, and hope.