The Diocese of Zomba, part of the ecclesiastical province of Blantyre, serves Catholics in southern Malawi, guiding them in faith, prayer, and community life. It covers 3,522 km² and continues to nurture vibrant Catholic communities rooted in the Gospel.
The Church in Zomba began as the Vicariate Apostolic of Zomba on 15 May 1952, carved out from the Vicariate Apostolic of Shiré. In 1956, part of its territory was separated to form the Vicariate Apostolic of Likuni. On 25 April 1959, it was elevated to a diocese, marking a new chapter in the pastoral care and evangelization of the region. Later, in 1969, part of its territory was ceded to create the Prefecture Apostolic of Fort Johnston.
The Diocese has been shepherded by dedicated leaders: Bishop Lawrence Pullen Hardman, S.M.M. (1952–1970), Bishop Matthias A. Chimole (1970–1979), Bishop Allan Chamgwera (1981–2004), Bishop Thomas Luke Msusa, S.M.M. (2003–2013, later Archbishop of Blantyre), Bishop George Desmond Tambala, O.C.D. (2015–2021, later Archbishop of Lilongwe), and the current Bishop Alfred Mateyu Chaima (2023–present). Under their guidance, the Diocese has grown in faith, pastoral outreach, and social service, continuing to witness Christ’s love in the lives of the faithful.