BISHOP HENRY MCHAMUNGU BIOGRAPHY

Get to know our Auxiliary Bishop

OFFICIAL POTRAIT
OFFICIAL COAT OF ARMS
BISHOP MCHAMUNNGU AT CHRISM MASS, ST JOSEPH CATHEDRAL 15 APRIL 2025

Early Life and Formation

Name: Henry Mchamungu Kyara

Birth and Place of Birth: 8th January 1965; Moshi- Kilimanjaro.

Education: Primary Education: Legho Primary School, 1972-1979.

                   Secondary Education: St. James Junior Seminary, 1980-1986.

                   Philosophy: Ntungamo Major Seminary, 1986-1988.

                   Theology: Kipalapala Senior Seminary, 1988-1994.

Ordination: Diaconate: 6th January 1994.

                    Priesthood: 24th June 1994.

Pastoral Assignments soon after Ordination: Secretary of the Diocese and Vocation Director, 1994-1998; Lecturer and Formator at Segerea Senior Seminary, 1998-1999.

Further Studies after Ordination: Specialization in Canon Law- Licentiate at Catholic University of Eastern Africa (C.U.E.A), 1999-2001.

Pastoral Assignments: Lecturer in Canon Law at Segerea Senior Seminary and Judge in the Interdiocesan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, 2001-2006.

Further Studies: Doctoral Studies at Catholic Theological University Linz- Austria, 2006-2011.

Further Assignments: Lecturer in Canon Law at Segerea Senior Seminary and Judge in the Interdiocesan Tribunal of the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam, 2011- 2021.

         On 7th July 2021 appointed by Pope Francis as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of

         Dar es Salaam.

         On 21st September consecrated as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Dar es Salaam.

  • Key Responsibilities:

    • Assists the Archbishop in pastoral governance, confirmations, and ordinations.

    • Oversees deaneries and parishes, ensuring smooth diocesan operations.

    • Focuses on youth engagement, priestly formation, and social justice initiatives.

  • Notable Contributions:

    • Synod on Synodality: Actively promoted lay participation in the 2021–2023 Vatican Synod process.

    • Interfaith Collaboration: Works with Muslim and Christian leaders to foster peace in Dar es Salaam.

 

Leadership Style and Legacy

  • Pastoral Approach: Known for his humility, administrative efficiency, and deep spiritual life.
  • Influence on Seminarians: As former rector, many priests credit him for their strong formation.
  • Future Prospects: Considered a potential candidate for a diocesan bishopric in Tanzania’s growing Church.

 

Bishop Henry Mchamungu’s journey—from Moshi to becoming Dar es Salaam’s auxiliary bishop—reflects his dedication to priestly service and Church governance. His work in formation, administration, and pastoral care continues to shape Tanzania’s Catholic future.

Bishop Henry Mchamungu's Gallery

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