By Doris Sialusunga, CNCS

The Communication Network for Catholic Sisters (CNCS) has launched its first-ever strategic plan aimed at amplifying the voices, visibility and impact of Catholic Sisters across Zambia through strengthened communication and partnerships.

The launch, which was held at Kalundu Conference Centre in Lusaka, brought together religious leaders, media representatives and corporate partners to witness the unveiling of the five-year strategic plan (2025–2029) that will guide CNCS’s mission of supporting Catholic Sisters in education, health and social development.

The Guest of Honor and Zambia National Broadcasting Corporation (ZNBC) Director General, Berry Lwando, commended Catholic Sisters for their longstanding contribution to national development.

“The work that you do has always been kept at the back, subliminal, but in truth, it is extremely important work in education, in health, in hospices, in social work and in evangelization,” said Mr. Lwando.

He noted that Catholic institutions continue to lead Zambia’s education sector.

“If you look at the top ten schools in the country, they are actually all run by Sisters,” he said.

“Wherever there are Catholic schools and hospitals, you find they serve more non-Catholics than Catholics. That is absolutely commendable.”

Mr. Lwando pledged ZNBC’s partnership with CNCS to promote the work of Catholic Sisters through its media platforms.

“As a national public broadcaster, we stand ready to partner with CNCS. We pledge to utilize our platforms, four televisions, three radio stations and digital channels to be loud and clear for the Catholic Sisters,” he said.

He also urged Zambians to support the Sisters’ efforts with local resources.

“These activities require resources. It is now about us putting together the resources that will help this community of nuns who are enabling us to journey together,” he added.

And CNCS Director Sr. Rose Nyondo said the network was established to amplify the work of Catholic Sisters and ensure their contributions to society are documented and shared.

“We are gathered here to unveil something truly special, the Communication Network for Catholic Sisters and its Strategic Plan,” she said.

“From the earliest mission stations, Catholic Sisters have always stood where the needs of society are greatest.”

She said the new network would highlight the Sisters’ work in education, health and social service.

“Too often their light has been hidden, their stories untold, their impact unrecognized. That is why CNCS exists, to make sure their witness is heard and their work preserved for generations,” said Sr. Rose.

She said the Strategic Plan, focuses on four areas: media content development, media empowerment, institutional development and strategic partnerships.

“This is more than a communication project, it is a moral commission,” she said.

“Together, we can eradicate ignorance, poverty, hunger, disease and all that prevents God’s people from enjoying the fullness of life.”

Sr. Rose announced that CNCS will hold a fundraising marathon next year to raise resources for the Sisters’ projects.

“This marathon will not only be a sporting event but a movement bringing together Sisters, partners, communities and the corporate world to raise resources that fuel the transformative work of Catholic Sisters across Zambia,” she said.

And CNCS Board Member Dr. Bridget Kambobe said the development of the Strategic Plan followed a rigorous and faith-based process rooted in discernment and stewardship.

“For us to unpack the Constitutional review, we based the process on the principles of God. It was about discernment and stewardship,” she said.

She said the plan reflects CNCS’s mission to align faith with communication.

“We have looked at media not just as a tool but as a means of impact, influence, and contribution. Our focus is to be visible enough as Christ was visible,” said Dr. Kambobe.

She added that the plan will guide the network in creating content that promotes transformation and builds institutional capacity.

“As the world goes through phenomenal change, we still believe that the values Jesus Christ used to heal, enlighten and uplift the marginalized must guide our work,” she said.

Meanwhile, the Zambia Association of Sisterhood (ZAS) Chairperson Sr. Valeria Kabaso described the launch as a major step forward for Catholic women religious in Zambia.

“We are not launching just a document; this is a commitment to fostering collaboration, empowerment and deeper connection among Catholic Sisters,” she said.

She said the network will strengthen communication and documentation of the Sisters’ work.

“In today’s digital world, communication is key. This network will foster the documentation and storytelling of the works of our Sisters,” said Sr. Valeria.

She emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in achieving CNCS’s goals.

“Through the Communication Network for Catholic Sisters, we can amplify our voices, share our stories and celebrate our achievements. Our strength lies in our unity,” she said.