A significant chapter for Catholic media in the Archdiocese of Lilongwe closed today as Reverend Father Louis Chikanya officially handed over the directorship of Radio Alinafe to the new Acting Director, Father Francis Lekaleka.

The ceremony, attended by Archdiocesan administration and staff, was not merely a formal transition but a heartfelt memorial of seven years of transformation and tireless service.

Passing the torch of Catholic media. Fr. Louis Chikanya (in Black) and Fr. Francis Lekaleka (in White) mark the official change of leadership at the Archdiocese of Lilongwe’s media house

Reflecting on his journey during a one-on-one interview with Eric Norman Mkwaira and Titus Jata Phiri, Fr. Chikanya recalled how his path began in 2015 when the late Archbishop Tarcizio Ziyaye sent him to study Mass Communications in Tanzania to prepare for this very role.

Since taking the helm in 2018, Fr. Chikanya has overseen a period of remarkable growth:

• Expanded Reach: Overcoming equipment challenges to increase the radio’s coverage and signal strength.

• Increased Listenership: Building a loyal audience that grew to love the station’s diverse programming.

• Multi-Tasking Ministry: Simultaneously serving as the Director of Radio Alinafe, the Administrator of Maula Cathedral, and the Chairperson of Archdiocesan Projects.

“I was working almost 24 hours a day… I got used to it because I believe in working hard. My motto is from 1 Corinthians 15:58: ‘Work hard because the work that you do for God is not unprofitable.’“

Titus Jata Phiri (L) and Eric Norman Mkwaira (R) pose with Fr. Louis Chikanya (C) before an exclusive look at his 24-hour work schedule and his seven-year journey at the station. Video coming soon!

While many know his voice, Fr. Chikanya noted with a smile that few know his face—a reality that will change as he heads to his new post. He reflected fondly on the programs that defined his tenure:

• Kugawana Chikhulupiliro Chathu: His favorite program where he shared his personal faith journey.

• Inside the Bible: A teaching program that demanded deep study and commentary.

• Catholic Perspective: A panel-based show tackling social, health, and political issues from a Church viewpoint.

“Even those we were rebuking listened to the program,” he shared. “They may not have loved our ideas, but they loved the program.”

Monica Chinyama (R) and Mercy Chimwala (L) capturing a memorial photo with Fr. Chikanya (C) following the official handover ceremony

As Fr. Chikanya prepares to serve as a pastoral worker in the Archdiocese of Riga, Latvia, he leaves with a vision for the station he loves. He spoke of the Archdiocese’s plans to improve coverage and the dream of seeing Radio Alinafe graduate into Television Alinafe.

He urged the staff to cooperate fully with Fr. Francis Lekaleka and thanked the listeners for their unwavering moral and financial support.

Radio Alinafe staff members capture a final moment with outgoing Director Fr. Chikanya and incoming Director Fr. Lekaleka

Watch the Exclusive Interview

Our team captured a full video interview with Fr. Chikanya, where he dives deeper into his experiences and his “24-hour” work schedule. Stay tuned to our YouTube channel and social media platforms for the release of the video in the coming days!