Rev. João Sambo, elected as a United Methodist bishop at the Africa Central Conference, has a vision for leadership empowerment in Mozambique. He succeeds Bishop Joaquina Nhanala in overseeing the Mozambique Episcopal Area. This election occurs amidst the restructuring of the Africa Central Conference into East and Southern Africa Central Conferences.
The Rev. João Sambo, an elder from Mozambique, was elected as a bishop of the United Methodist Church during the Africa Central Conference held in Johannesburg on March 15, receiving 43 out of 60 votes on the 14th ballot. This marks him as the fourth bishop and the third graduate of Africa University to be elected by this body.
Upon his election, Sambo expressed his feelings, stating, “I expected the election, but I was not sure. I am overwhelmed. I know the responsibility is huge.” His vision emphasizes empowerment and training for leadership in Mozambique, alongside fostering unity across Africa.
After his consecration on March 16, Sambo will oversee the Mozambique Episcopal Area, succeeding the retiring Bishop Joaquina F. Nhanala, noted as the first female bishop in Africa. His domain includes the Mozambique North, Mozambique South, and South Africa Provisional conferences, as well as a growing presence in Madagascar.
The Africa Central Conference concluded its sessions by splitting into two new central conferences: East Africa and Southern Africa. Each will encompass several annual conferences, with the East Africa Central Conference comprising countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda, while the Southern Africa Central Conference includes nations like Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe.
Sambo’s previous roles have included administrative assistant and episcopal secretary, in addition to serving as a translator at significant church conferences. He is an established figure, converting to Christianity in 1985 and earning advanced theological degrees from institutions like Africa University and Emory University. He and his wife, Délia Ester Matsinhe Sambo, are parents to four children.
Rev. João Sambo’s election as bishop signifies a milestone for the United Methodist Church, emphasizing leadership empowerment and unity in Africa. With a strong educational background and extensive service within the church, he is poised to navigate the evolving dynamics of the newly formed Southern Africa Central Conference while succeeding a trailblazing figure in Bishop Nhanala.
Original Source: www.umnews.org
