The United Church of Zambia on 31st May 2026 held a heartfelt retirement farewell service for Mr. Kennedy Kabwe, former Head Teacher of UCZ Nambala Secondary School, in Nambala, marking the end of a distinguished career in education.
The service, which drew pupils, staff, church leadership, and members of the community, celebrated Mr. Kabwe’s legacy of excellence, discipline, and servant leadership.
Speaking on behalf of the pupils, the Vice Head Boy described Mr. Kabwe as an a leader who consistently encouraged learners to aim higher.
“His legacy will forever live in our hearts. Retirement is the beginning of a new chapter. On behalf of all the pupils, thank you for your leadership, sir,” he said.
Acting Head Teacher Mrs. Chisenga praised Mr. Kabwe’s leadership style, describing him as calm, steady, and approachable.
“We will carry forward the example you set. The school is better because of you,” she said.
Meanwhile, representing the Dean of Sister Schools, Mr. Abel Kanuke highlighted the significance of the Church’s role in education and commended the decision to honour Mr. Kabwe through a special service.
“Mr. Kabwe’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. He is an educationist with unmatched qualities who led from the front, shaping character and producing pupils who will serve society and the Church,” he said.
He further appealed to the retiree to remain accessible even after retirement, maintaining an open-door policy to continue mentoring others.
Speaking at the same event, UCZ Education Secretary Mr. Darius Mumba commended Mr. Kabwe for raising academic standards at the school.
“You have left the pass rate at 97%. This is a clear testament to your hard work and dedication,” he said.
Also paying tribute, Dr. Mwalula of DEBS Mumbwa described Mr. Kabwe as a man of integrity, accountability, and transparency.
“No one ever complained about funds during his time as treasurer. He accounted for every penny and ensured it was used responsibly,” he said, adding that Mr. Kabwe’s hands-on leadership approach made a lasting impact on the institution.
In his remarks, Mr. Kabwe expressed gratitude to the Church, teachers, and parents for the support rendered during his tenure.
“I thank the UCZ for giving me the opportunity to serve, and I appreciate the teachers and parents for working with me,” he said.
Delivering the sermon, UCZ General Secretary Rev. Dr. Chipasha Musaba, who also graced the occasion as Guest of Honour, drew from Ecclesiastes 3:1–2 and 2 Timothy 4:7 under the theme “A Life Well Lived, A Race Well Run.”
“We learn from the speeches that have been given here—you touched lives. For others, how are we making use of the time God has given to us?” he challenged.
Meanwhile, a similar retirement farewell service was held on the same day in Mbereshi in honour of Mr. Mwansa Africa, former Head Teacher of Mbereshi Primary School.
Preaching during the service, Luapula Presbytery Bishop Rev. Bishop Darius Chitalu delivered a homily based on 1 Corinthians 9:24–25, under the theme “Success.”
He defined success as an achievement attained through perseverance and struggle, urging congregants to work diligently and remain focused on their goals.
The Bishop encouraged Christians to emulate Mr. Mwansa Africa’s life and dedication, noting that he had successfully run his race.
He also advised church workers to begin preparing for retirement early and to diversify their livelihoods, particularly through ventures such as agriculture.
Rev. Bishop Chitalu concluded by thanking Mr. Mwansa Africa for his committed service to both the Church and the education sector.
The twin ceremonies underscored the UCZ’s continued appreciation of dedicated service, as both retirees were celebrated for lives of impact, leadership, and unwavering commitment to shaping future generations.