Biography of Archbishop Renatus Leonard Nkwande

His Grace , Renatus Leonard Nkwande, born on November 12, 1965, in Sumve, Mwanza Archdiocese, is the current Metropolitan Archbishop of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Mwanza.

 

Early Life and Education

Archbishop Nkwande began his education at Sumve Primary School before advancing to Makoko Junior Seminary in Musoma Diocese. He later completed his secondary education at the Junior Seminary in Mwanza, graduating in 1987.

In the same year, he commenced his philosophical studies at Kibosho Major Seminary and, in 1989, joined St. Charles Lwanga Major Seminary (Segerea) in the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam for his theological studies.

Ordination and Early Priesthood

Archbishop Nkwande was ordained to the Sacred Priesthood on July 2, 1995, for the service of Mwanza Archdiocese. His ministry in the early years included:

a)     Assistant Pastor at Magu Parish (1995–1996).

b)     Rector of St. Mary’s Junior Seminary, where he mentored young men discerning priestly vocations (1996–2001).

Advanced Studies and Service

In 2002, Archbishop Nkwande furthered his education in Rome, earning a Licentiate in Canon Law from the Pontifical Urban University in 2005. Returning to Mwanza, he faithfully served as:

a)     Chief Financial Administrator of the Archdiocese (2005–2011).

b)     Vicar General (2008–2009), assisting in the governance of the Archdiocese.

c)     Archdiocesan Administrator in 2009, following the death of Most Reverend Anthony Mayala, then Archbishop of Mwanza.

Episcopal Ministry

On November 27, 2010, His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI appointed him as the first Bishop of the newly established Diocese of Bunda. He was consecrated on February 20, 2011, by His Eminence Polycarp Cardinal Pengo, Archbishop of Dar es Salaam. In addition to his duties in Bunda, he served as Apostolic Administrator of Geita Diocese from 2014 to 2016.

Shepherd of Mwanza Archdiocese

On February 11, 2019, His Holiness Pope Francis appointed him as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Mwanza. He formally took possession of the Archdiocese on May 12, 2019, as its spiritual shepherd and guardian of the faith.

Milestones and Witness

Archbishop Nkwande has been an ardent advocate of Catholic values, championing the dignity of human life, social justice, and evangelization:

  • In 2020, he celebrated the Silver Jubilee of his Priestly Ordination, reflecting on 25 years of service to Christ and His Church.
  • He has spoken boldly against ideologies that undermine African cultural and Christian values, denouncing such influences as “missionaries of evil” while upholding the sanctity of marriage, family, and life.
  • In October 2024, he called on the faithful of Tanzania to give thanks for 60 years of independence and to recognize the hand of God in the nation’s development.

Pastoral Vision

His pastoral ministry is illuminated by his episcopal motto: “Bwana ndiye fungu la posho langu” (The Lord is my portion and my cup) – Psalm 16:5.

 

With a heart for the people of God, Archbishop Nkwande continues to guide the Archdiocese of Mwanza in fidelity to the Gospel, inspired by the teachings of the Magisterium, and dedicated to the salvation of souls. Through his ministry, he emphasizes prayer, catechesis, and sacramental life as central to the mission of the Church.

Archbishop Renatus Leonard Nkwande remains a steadfast servant of Christ, striving to build a Church that is vibrant in faith, deeply rooted in charity, and firmly grounded in the traditions of the Catholic Church.