14/04/2026
Cavendish University Zambia Mourns the Passing of Vice Chancellor, Professor Welani
Chilengwe (Major, Retired)
Lusaka, Zambia
14/04/2026
It is with profound sorrow that Cavendish University Zambia announces the passing of its Vice Chancellor,
Professor Welani Chilengwe (Major, Retired), who passed away in the late hours of Monday, 13/04/2026,
at the University Teaching Hospital (UTH) following an illness. Professor Chilengwe was a distinguished
academic, surgeon, and national servant whose legacy in higher education and healthcare will endure for
generations.
Professor Chilengwe’s journey at Cavendish University Zambia began in 2016 when he joined as a Senior
Lecturer in the School of Medicine. Rising through the ranks, he served as Assistant Dean and later Dean
of the School of Medicine before being appointed Acting Vice Chancellor in August 2020, and
subsequently Vice Chancellor, a role in which he demonstrated visionary leadership and an unwavering
commitment to academic excellence.
During his tenure, he championed the advancement of research and publication, while spearheading the
revitalization and strengthening of postgraduate programmes, particularly at the PhD level. His leadership
significantly contributed to the University’s mission of developing responsible, educated, employable, and
entrepreneurial graduates.
Beyond academia, Professor Chilengwe had an illustrious career in public service and medicine. He held
several senior roles within the Ministry of Health, including Director of Clinical Care & Diagnostic Services
and Director of Mobile & Emergency Health Services. He also served as Executive Director at major health
institutions such as Ndola Central Hospital and Chainama Hills College Hospital, where he led impactful
national surgical outreach programmes that benefited thousands of Zambians.
As a former officer in the Zambia Army, he rose to the rank of Major and served in United Nations
peacekeeping missions in Sierra Leone and Rwanda, earning recognition for his dedicated service.
Professor Chilengwe was a highly accomplished scholar, holding medical and surgical qualifications
complemented by international training in Public Health Management. His research contributions in thyroid
disease, rural healthcare access, and health management solidified his standing as a respected thought leader
in the medical field.
He will be remembered for his humility, discipline, mentorship, and profound impact on students,
colleagues, and the nation at large.
The University extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends and the entire Cavendish University
Zambia community during this difficult time.
Details regarding memorial and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.
