The idea of establishing an Anglican university has evolved from a need for quality higher education in Malawi, more especially in recent years. The idea is enshrined in the diocesan strategic plan which was launched in 2012 through the guidance of Rt. Rev. Francis Kaulanda.

The establishment of LAMAU is a bold step by the Anglican Diocese of Lake Malawi to help contribute to the national development agenda, through skills development programs at the tertiary level and increase manpower supply in the Church and the nation as a whole. The whole process of establishing the University started in mid-May, 2014 after CCM Board agreed to start rolling the process. In July, 2014 the CCM Board, appointed a Technical Team, comprising; Prof. Leonard Kamwanja (chair), Rev. Andrew Sumani (secretary), Late Dr. Timothy Ngwira and Mr. Francis Makoza, to work out modalities and formalities for the establishment of the University. These names were endorsed by the Diocesan Standing Committee (DSC) and presentations on the progress of the University have been made at Synod as well.