Vatican City, June 8, 2024 — Ambassador Macenje Mazoka officially presented her Letters of Credence to Pope Francis, accrediting her as Zambia’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the Holy See. The ceremony marked a significant step in the diplomatic relationship between Zambia and the Vatican.
Ambassador Mazoka arrived in Rome several days prior to the presentation for meetings with senior officials of the Holy See, including a private audience with Archbishop Paul Richard Gallagher, Secretary for Relations with States and International Organisations, and Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Secretary of State. Archbishop Gallagher praised Zambia’s progress in development, while Cardinal Parolin acknowledged the nation’s positive relations with the Holy See and highlighted the appreciation for its peaceful nature.
During the credentials presentation, Pope Francis conveyed his greetings and high regard to Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, extending his prayers for the president and the people of Zambia. Ambassador Mazoka was joined by envoys from Ethiopia, Tanzania, Burundi, Qatar, and Mauritania in presenting their credentials.
In his address, Pope Francis focused on the themes of family, hope, and peace, underscoring their importance in diplomatic service. He likened the international community to a family, emphasizing that families are where values such as love, fraternity, togetherness, and concern for others are nurtured. The Pope stressed that diplomacy’s noble work, both bilaterally and multilaterally, should promote these values for authentic human development and global progress.
Pope Francis expressed concern over the current state of the global community, referencing conflicts in Sudan, Ukraine, Gaza, and Haiti, along with other humanitarian crises. He highlighted pressing issues like forced migration, human trafficking, the impact of climate change on the poor, and global economic disparities that contribute to a loss of hope, particularly among youth.
The Pontiff encouraged the ambassadors to strengthen relations between their nations and the Holy See and to work towards a more just and humane society. He emphasized the need for mutual respect and collaboration to address global injustices, discrimination, poverty, and inequality. Pope Francis assured the ambassadors of the Vatican’s support, stating that the Secretariat of State and other offices of the Roman Catholic Curia are ready to assist them in their duties.
Ambassador Mazoka’s new role also includes accreditation to London and Ireland.
