Anglican Cathedral confronts Zambia’s growing social challenges

By BENEDICT TEMBO

THE Anglican Cathedral of the Holy Cross has stepped up efforts to confront the country’s growing social challenges, launching programmes that target rehabilitation, counselling and skills training for young people. Speaking at the prize-giving ceremony of the Cathedral’s fundraising golf tournament at Lusaka Golf Club on Sunday, Reverend Father Gabriel Phiri said the church could not remain passive in the face of rising youth suicides, teenage pregnancies and substance abuse.

“These are not just statistics; these are our children, our neighbours, and the future of Zambia,” Rev. Fr. Phiri told the gathering.

He emphasised that faith must be active, pointing to initiatives already underway, including a scholarship programme that currently supports more than 25 students in tertiary education.

“We are working to reintegrate them into the education system and promote self-reliance,” he said.

The golf tournament, he explained, was more than a sporting event.

 “This tournament is a life-line. The funds we raise here today will directly fuel these vital programmes – from the scholarship fund that keeps promising students in school, to the rehabilitation initiatives that give a young person a chance at life,” Rev. Fr. Phiri said.

He praised the generosity of golfers and sponsors, noting that their commitment demonstrated profound social responsibility.

Rose Phiri, representing the Cathedral’s Men’s and Business Expo Ministries, echoed the urgency of scaling up fundraising ventures.

She said teenage pregnancies, drug abuse and mental health illnesses were on the rise while resources remained limited, making community support initiatives and partnerships critical.

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