Romanus Mihali consecrated as new Bishop of Iringa Diocese
What you need to know:
- The colourful and solemn Holy Mass, held at the grounds of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was presided over by Cardinal Polycarp Pengo, retired Archbishop of Dar es Salaam.
Iringa. A spirit of joy and reverence filled the Catholic Diocese of Iringa on Sunday, April 27, 2025 as the faithful gathered to witness the consecration and official installation of Bishop Romanus Mihali, who succeeds retired Bishop Tarcisius Ngalalekumtwa after decades of dedicated service.
Bishop Ngalalekumtwa, born on October 25, 1948, was consecrated by Pope John Paul II in 1989 as Coadjutor Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sumbawanga. He later served as Bishop of Iringa from November 21, 1992, until his retirement on January 28, 2025. He also chaired the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC) between 2012 and 2018.
The colourful and solemn Holy Mass, held at the grounds of the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was presided over by Cardinal Polycarp Pengo, retired Archbishop of Dar es Salaam. The event drew senior clergy and distinguished guests, including the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Doto Biteko, who represented the Government.
Speaking during the celebration, Bishop Wolfgang Pisa of Lindi, representing TEC, called upon the faithful and all Tanzanians to pray for a peaceful and fair general election later this year. He stressed the need for reforms in electoral systems, currently under scrutiny by stakeholders, to ensure credible elections that yield leaders of integrity, in keeping with the principles of multiparty democracy.
In his address, Mr Biteko conveyed the Government’s congratulations to Bishop Mihali, highlighting the essential role of religious leaders in fostering unity, peace, and moral development within society.
“Bishop Mihali's leadership comes at a time when Tanzania needs voices of hope, peace, and service to the people,” said Mr Biteko, urging continued collaboration between religious institutions and the State for the nation’s progress.
Visibly moved, Bishop Mihali pledged to serve with humility and devotion, urging the faithful to strengthen their faith and reaffirming the Church’s commitment to both spiritual and social development. This year also marks his 25th anniversary of priesthood.
