The Apostolic Nunciature to South Africa has announced the appointment of Archbishop Zolile Peter Mpambani S.C.I., Archbishop of Bloemfontein, as Apostolic Administrator of the Diocese of Keimoes–Upington, following the passing of Bishop Edward Gariel Risi OMI on 04 December 2025.

The appointment was communicated in an official communiqué issued from Pretoria on 15 December 2025. The decision was made by the Dicastery for Evangelization, Section for First Evangelization and New Particular Churches, acting in accordance with the faculties granted to it by His Holiness Pope Leo XIV.

In accordance with canon law and established practice, the designation sede vacante indicates that the Diocese of Keimoes–Upington is currently without a diocesan bishop, while ad nutum Sanctae Sedis signifies that the appointment remains at the disposition of the Holy See. In this capacity, Archbishop Mpambani is entrusted with the pastoral governance of the diocese until further provision is made.

Archbishop Mpambani, a member of the Congregation of the Sacred Heart of Jesus (S.C.I.), has served as Archbishop of Bloemfontein since his appointment to the metropolitan see. His new responsibility extends his pastoral service to the Northern Cape region, where the Diocese of Keimoes–Upington encompasses vast rural areas and diverse communities.

As Apostolic Administrator, Archbishop Mpambani assumes the ordinary responsibilities of diocesan governance, including the care of clergy, religious and laity, the administration of diocesan structures, and the promotion of pastoral continuity during this period of transition. The appointment aims to ensure stability and sustained pastoral accompaniment of the faithful while the Holy See discerns the next steps for the diocese.

The communiqué, issued by the Apostolic Nunciature, underscores the Holy See’s solicitude for the local Church in South Africa and its commitment to orderly pastoral governance during times of vacancy.

The Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference (SACBC) Communication Office has received the communiqué and joins the local Church in welcoming Archbishop Mpambani’s appointment. The faithful of the Diocese of Keimoes–Upington are invited to keep their Apostolic Administrator in prayer as he undertakes this service on behalf of the Holy See and the People of God.