Pastor Mwale: “This vision has been on my heart for a long time, but I didn’t know how to do it.”
Chipata, a picturesque city of over 380,000 residents in eastern Zambia, is now home to a unique ministry that is bringing the Word of God directly into the halls of local government. Leading this effort is Pastor Hatred Mwale, Capitol Ministries’ Local Government Ministry (LGM) Leader.
Pastor Mwale’s journey with Capitol Ministries began in September 2024 after attending a Training Conference in Cape Town, South Africa. Inspired by the vision to reach political leaders—often overlooked in evangelism—he returned home determined to establish a ministry in the mayor’s office.
“What I like most about Capitol Ministries,” Mwale shared, “is the concept of reaching out to political leaders. In most cases, they are left out when it comes to sharing the gospel. Here in Zambia, when people see a political leader, they usually think of what they can get from them—money or resources—not about sharing Christ with them. This vision has been on my heart for a long time, but I didn’t know how to do it. When I was introduced to CapMin, I said, ‘Wow—this is it!’”
Mwale, 47, has been married for 21 years and is the father of three. He has been in pastoral ministry since 2012, serving as pastor of New Hope Bible Church. Raised in a Catholic home, he came to Christ in 1998 and later earned a degree in theology and education from Justo Mwale University, as well as a diploma in business administration from the University of Zambia.
Upon his return from CapMin Training Conference in 2024, Pastor Mwale approached Chipata Mayor Hon. George Mwanza—a 31-year-old reformed Christian and one of Southern Africa’s youngest mayors about launching a Bible study in his office. After several meetings, the mayor approved the plan, and by February, the Chipata City Council gave official permission to begin.
The ministry now meets regularly, with Bible studies open to both the mayor and council members. While scheduling challenges remain, Pastor Mwale continues to meet faithfully with the mayor and sharing materials digitally when in-person meetings are not possible.
Mwale believes strongly in the importance of discipling political leaders:
“They are lawmakers who adopt laws that affect all of us. If they do not have the mind of Christ, the laws they pass may fall short of God’s intent. But if their minds are guided by the Spirit of God, they will act with compassion to all people. Transformed leaders will help shape a more just and godly society. That’s why it is so important to disciple them.”
Pastor Mwale asks for your prayers and support as he works to grow the ministry. There are many needs, including the cost of printing hard-copy Bible study materials, providing refreshments, and covering transportation expenses.
If you feel led to support Pastor Mwale’s discipleship work financially, consider making a gift today to help strengthen the ministry’s impact.