Sister Jane Kaputa grew up in Kabwe, Zambia, a bustling and ever-expanding province, renowned for it’s historical, agricultural, educational and transportational significance.
Sr Jane accredits her main inspiration for becoming a nun to her grandfather and aunty. Her grandfather was a catechist; he used to preach and help those in need and her aunty was a sister who encouraged Sr Jane to also pursue a religious life. By the 10th grade she had decided to dedicate her life to God.
Through the aid of her parish priest, she was able to pick a congregation to join. She chose the ‘Servants of Mary’.
When Sr Jane first arrived in Mpika, she was met with the harsh realities of rural life, a stark contrast to her urban background. In this region, challenges such as poverty, limited access to education and healthcare, food insecurity, inadequate transportation, and a shortage of proper medicine and medical equipment are widespread. These problems are further intensified by drought and overpopulation.
To alleviate these issues, Sr Jane currently works as the diocesan women coordinator meaning she focuses on engaging and supporting women through organising events, facilitating discussions and other needs of the women, within the church community.
An example of this is, Sr Jane hosts mothers’ groups which give mothers a space to congregate in a safe space to discuss their worries, hopes, dreams, ambitions and to ask for help if needed. In addition to this, Sr Jane also coordinates the Maize Mill project which aims to educate women on cultivating their own maize to support their families. Agricultural experts are brought in to provide hands-on training in effective gardening techniques.
Despite the hardship the Mpika people face, they are warm and welcome. They have completely opened their arms to Sr Jane, so much so that she has become a prevalent part of people’s lives. Sharing a touching story, Sr. Jane says:
“There is one child, a little girl, she is only seven. Every evening, she asks her parents ‘Can you call Sister Jane? We pray.’ So, every evening before she sleeps, we pray. Yesterday I didn't pray with her, I was at work till late. The mother this morning was telling me she was annoyed. ‘Where has Sister Jane gone? We are supposed to pray. We didn't pray. You go and tell her that I'm annoyed with her!’ So, when she comes back from school, I'm going to apologise to say sorry I went to work. So, we shall pray today.”
This heartfelt moment showcases the crucial role Sr Jane has within the community, not only serving as a spiritual guide and caregiver but as a deeply loved and respected woman in the lives of everybody, young and old, within the community.
Guided by humility, service and unwavering faith, Sr Jane has become a beacon of hope and empowerment in Mpika, dedicating her life to uplifting women, nurturing families, and strengthening the community through both faith and action.
As she shares in her heartfelt appeal: “They’re very happy and very grateful for the support. Please don’t leave us behind.” – Sr Jane
