The newly created Anglican Diocese of Central Highlands in Malawi on 16 Sept 2026 installed the Very Rev. Canon Raphael Kabenu Mwale as its first vicar general, beginning the transitional work of organizing one of three dioceses carved from the former Diocese of Lake Malawi.

The service was attended by the Rt. Rev. Daniel Kalonga, who became Bishop of the Diocese of Central Malawi following the reorganization. Bishop Kalonga had served as Bishop of Lake Malawi since his consecration in July 2025 and had earlier been vicar general and rector of St Thomas Church, Lilongwe.

The Anglican Council in Malawi announced on 1 Sept 2026 the creation of the dioceses of Central Highlands, Likoma, and Lake Malawi, increasing the number of Anglican dioceses in the country from four to seven. The new dioceses are being established from the territory of the former Diocese of Lake Malawi as part of a phased transition intended to improve pastoral oversight and local administration.

Under the plan, the former Lake Malawi diocese has been divided into:

• The Diocese of Central Malawi, centred on Lilongwe and Dedza, with Bishop Kalonga as its first diocesan bishop.
• The Diocese of Central Highlands, incorporating Kasungu and Dowa districts, pending confirmation of any additional territory.
• A reconstituted Diocese of Lake Malawi, alongside the new Diocese of Likoma.

The installation of vicars general in September was intended to precede synods and elective assemblies in each of the new jurisdictions. The dioceses are scheduled to begin formal operation on 1 January 2027.

In Anglican polity, a vicar general is a senior cleric empowered to assist in administration and, during a vacancy or transition, to exercise delegated responsibilities on behalf of the bishop or diocesan authorities. Canon Mwale will therefore play a central role in establishing the Central Highlands’ structures, preparing for its synod, and providing pastoral and administrative leadership as the new diocese moves toward the election of its first bishop.

The installation marked what local church leaders described as a new chapter for Anglicans in the central highlands. They gave thanks for Canon Mwale’s appointment and asked for prayers that he would be granted wisdom and strength as he leads the new diocese through its formative months.