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Nigerian Bishop and AU Board Member Mavula dies

Nigerian Bishop and member of the Africa University board of directors, Bishop Kefas Kane Mavula died in Nigeria, Thursday 10 January 2008, after a short illness. He was 40.

According to the United Methodist News Service; the official news organ of the United Methodist Church, Bishop Mavula died at the ECWA Evangel Hospital in Jos City, Plateau State, Nigeria after complaining of stomach pains and vomiting blood. An autopsy is expected to be conducted soon, to determine the cause of his death.

Bishop Mavula served on the Africa University Board of Directors since February 2003 and was a member of the Finance and Audit Committee.

In describing the late Bishop Mavula, resident Bishop of the Zimbabwe area, Bishop Eben Nhiwatiwa said Bishop Mavula was very connected to Africa University and since his appointment on the board of directors, served diligently in his various portfolios and committees. “He always brought in a sense of wisdom to discussions in our meetings. He was also very effective in using his experiences in the field of education in contributing to the overall development of Africa University, and he will be sorely missed.

Secretary to the Board of Directors of Africa University, Grace Muradzikwa was also shocked and described Bishop Mavula as a man with a lot of passion and energy for Africa University. “He knew the issues at hand at Africa University, and gave solid contributions as to the growth and development of the institution.’

An experienced teacher and educationist, Bishop Mavula became a Christian in 1976 and was baptized in June 1977. He became an ordained deacon in the United Methodist Church in the Nigeria annual conference in January 1993 and an elder in 1995. He also served as administrative assistant to the late resident Bishop of Nigeria, Bishop Done Peter Dabale. He was a holder of a bachelor of divinity in theology and a master of theology, from the Theological college of Northern Nigeria.

Interim Vice Chancellor for Africa University, Professor Fanuel Tagwira in his eulogy said he was deeply saddened by the loss of Bishop Mavula. “Bishop Mavula showed great potential to be able to assist Africa University. He will be best remembered for his diligence and hard work and for his enthusiasm to see Africa University become a pan African centre of educational excellence. His indelible contributions will be treasured forever.’

An only child, Bishop Mavula was born on the 3 rd of March 1967 in Nyaja, Taraba state, Nigeria. He was elected as Bishop of Nigeria on the 3 rd of March 2007, on his 40th birthday.

He is survived by his wife Jessica, and six children.

May his soul rest in eternal peace.