Emulate Rev. Navaya’s example—Minister

Minister of Gender, Community Development and Social Welfare Jean Sendeza has called on the CCAP Blantyre Synod faithful to emulate the late moderator the Reverend Edna Navaya’s commitment to service.

Speaking on Tuesday on behalf of President Lazarus Chakwera during a funeral service at St. Michael and All Angels Multipurpose Hall in Blantyre, she said Chakwera, as an advocate of servant leadership, was impressed with the level of focus Navaya displayed in the ministry.

“The President is saying all of us should be servant leaders and not bosses. As a country, we need leaders such as the Reverend Navaya,” said Sendeza.

Accompanied by Minster of Agriculture Sam Kawale, she said Navaya’s death should offer people an opportunity to foster unity.

“The President sent me with a message of unity. Religious leaders should preach the message of uniting Malawi,” she said.

In his eulogy, CCAP Blantyre Synod general secretary the Reverend Anderson Juma described Navaya’s death as a shock that has shaken the synod.

“We shall also remember her as a strong woman who stood for what was right. She was strict in following the practice and procedure,” he said.

Various speakers described the late Rev. Navaya as a person who carried out her duties as a minister, a mother and community member with love.

Since her ordination in 2001, Navaya served in various positions, including as vice-synod moderator (two terms), synod moderator (one term) and Claim Mabuku deputy board chairperson (two terms).

Navaya, who passed away on Sunday, was laid to rest on Tuesday at HHI Cemetery in Blantyre.

The funeral was also attended by leaders of Livingstonia and Nkhoma synods of the CCAP, the Anglican Church, Catholic Church, Islamic faith and Chiwanja Cha Ayao cultural group, among others.