The 1988 General Conference of the United Methodist Church approved the establishment of Africa University. In March 1992 the Faculty of Theology and the Faculty of Agriculture and Natural Resources became the two founding Faculties of Africa University. Subsequently, the first class of the Bachelor of Divinity degree programme was opened to nine students, under the leadership of the founding dean, Prof. David K. Yemba, who in 2005 was elected the Bishop of Central Congo Episcopal Area and in 2008 became the Chancellor of Africa University. In January 2005, Rev Dr. Beauty R. Maenzanise succeeded him, becoming the first female dean of the Faculty. From its humble beginnings at the farm house the faculty has grown in every respect.