The United Church of Zambia (UCZ) Central Presbytery is one of the historic and strategic Presbyteries of the Church, playing a key role in the growth and mission of the UCZ in Zambia’s central region. The Presbytery is currently led by Rev. Laston Chisanga, who serves as the Presbytery Bishop, with Rev. Burton Kalunga serving as the Presbytery Secretary.
Historically, much of what is now Central Presbytery was under the Methodist Church from 1905 to 1965, stretching from areas that today fall under Southern Presbytery to Keembe, while other parts were under the Church of Scotland. Following Zambia’s independence in 1964, the United Church of Zambia was officially formed on 16th January 1965, and Central Presbytery then extended from Kafue (now Lusaka Presbytery) to Serenje.
In December 1978, Synod resolved to separate Lusaka from what was then known as Central Presbytery. During this transition, Rev. Wallace C. Mfula was appointed Interim Moderator, overseeing the Presbytery which covered Chipembi, Keembe, Kabwe, Kapiri Mposhi, Mkushi, Serenje, and Chitambo.
Since its establishment, Central Presbytery has been served by dedicated church leaders. Rev. Joseph C. Mwansa served as Moderator from 1987 to 1994, followed by Bishops Rev. Albert Bowa (1995–2003), Rev. Crispin Mbalazi (2004–2007), Rev. Pethias J. Siame (2008–2009), Rev. Edward Musonda (2010–2020), and Rev. Laston Chisanga, who has served from 2021 to date.
The Presbytery also remembers with deep respect Bishop P. J. Siame, who passed away in a tragic road traffic accident together with Rev. Simumba, then Minister-in-Charge of All Saints Congregation, Kabwe.
Today, UCZ Central Presbytery continues to advance the mission of the Church through evangelism, education, health, and community development, remaining faithful to its rich heritage while serving the spiritual and social needs of its communities.
