Copperbelt Provincial Minister Elisha Matambo has instructed the Mufulira Municipal Council to prioritise the allocation of land to religious leaders in the district.
Speaking during the Mufulira Christian Ministers Fellowship gathering held under the theme “The Minister and Ministry in Contemporary Times,” Mr Matambo emphasised that the church should be treated as a non-profit entity.
Mr Matambo further implored the local authority to refrain from charging religious organisations the same land rates applied to commercial businesses, noting the church’s unique role in community service.
This directive follows an appeal by Fellowship Chairperson Pastor Elijah Mwashomwa, who highlighted the urgent need for land empowerment for both the church and its leadership.
Pastor Mwashomwa also called on government to consider donating a bus to the Fellowship to assist with transport for national and district-wide ministerial engagements.
The Fellowship stressed that the church is not merely interested in sermons but is a key stakeholder in national development.
Copperbelt Christian Ministers Consultative Forum General Secretary Apostle Erick Bwalya, urged the public to remain united despite differences in denomination or doctrine.
Meanwhile, Mr Matambo assured Copperbelt residents that the province’s persistent water challenges are being addressed, stating that all major water supply upgrade projects are scheduled for completion by June 2026, marking an end to the current shortages.
