• Bishop Adalbert Ndzana died in Yaoundé on September 7, 2025, at age 86.
• He led the Diocese of Mbalmayo for nearly 30 years until his resignation in 2016.
• He was remembered for his dedication to evangelization, education, and human development.
The Diocese of Mbalmayo announced the death of Bishop Adalbert Ndzana, emeritus bishop, who passed away on Sunday, September 7, 2025, in Yaoundé after an illness. He was 86.
His successor, Bishop Joseph-Marie Ndi-Okalla, issued a statement filled with emotion: “It is with deep sorrow and great affliction, but in the hope of the blessed resurrection (…) that I announce the death of Bishop Adalbert Ndzana.”
Born on July 17, 1939, in Zoatoubsi in the Diocese of Obala (Centre region), Ndzana was ordained priest on August 15, 1969.
On November 8, 1984, the Vatican appointed him coadjutor bishop of Mbalmayo to assist Bishop Paul Etoga. On March 7, 1987, he officially assumed leadership of the diocese. He served for nearly 30 years before his resignation, after which Pope Francis appointed Joseph-Marie Ndi-Okalla as his successor in December 2016.
Ndzana was remembered as a bishop deeply committed to evangelization and human development. Ndi-Okalla highlighted: “For 30 years, tirelessly, Bishop Adalbert worked for evangelization in the Diocese of Mbalmayo. His pastoral ministry was marked by education in faith and integral human promotion. He devoted himself with heart and dedication to youth education and health initiatives.”
His episcopal motto, “Et veritas liberavit vos” (And the truth will set you free), guided his ministry of proclaiming Christ, calling for conversion and supporting the faithful in their spiritual journey.
His death occurred on the eve of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, celebrated on September 8. The date carried special symbolism for Ndzana, who had a strong devotion to the Virgin Mary.
Ndi-Okalla urged prayers: “We entrust him to her benevolent intercession and recommend to the whole people of God prayers, and to priests Masses, for the eternal rest of his soul in God.”
This article was initially published in French by P.N.N
Adapted in English by Ange Jason Quenum