Mayor congratulates new Catholic Archbishop of Cape Town

12 January 2026

Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis has congratulated Archbishop-elect Sithembele Sipuka on his appointment by Pope Leo XIV as the Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Town. Read more below:

‘On behalf of the City of Cape Town, I send our warm congratulations and well wishes to Archbishop-elect Sipuka on his appointment by Pope Leo XIV. The role of Metropolitan Archbishop of Cape Town has been an historical force for social good in our city, not only for those of Catholic faith, but for the betterment of our city and all Capetonians. We are a better city today thanks to the influential role played by leaders of all faiths. Archbishop-elect Sipuka continues this proud civic tradition as the President of the South African Council of Churches (SACC), and now also as Archbishop. We look forward to working together in building a city of hope for all,’ said Mayor Hill-Lewis.
 
Prior to this latest appointment by Pope Leo XIV, Archbishop-elect Sipuka previously served in various capacities including President of the Southern African Catholic Bishops Conference (SACBC), Bishop of the Diocese of Mtatha, and currently as the President of the SACC.
 

Published by:
City of Cape Town, Media Office