Zambia pays final respects to Pope Francis in Rome

Following the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, a high-level Zambian delegation travelled to Rome to pay final respects on behalf of President Hakainde Hichilema and the people of Zambia. The delegation was led by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Hon. Mulambo Haimbe and Minister of Infrastructure, Housing and Urban Development Hon. Charles Milupi, and included senior representatives of the Catholic Church in Zambia.

The delegation viewed the body of the late Pontiff lying in state at St Peter's Basilica before joining thousands of faithful and world leaders for the funeral on 26 April 2025. The visit coincided with President Hichilema's declaration of 26 April 2025 as a National Day of Mourning in Zambia in honour of the late Pope.

The Embassy of Zambia in Rome coordinated the visit and associated protocol, working closely with the Holy See and Italian authorities to ensure Zambia's representation at this historic moment and to reinforce the country's enduring ties with the Catholic Church and Italy.