Lusaka: In a renewed effort to safeguard minors and vulnerable individuals from abuse, the Missionaries of Africa concluded their third safeguarding workshop in less than a year. Held in Lusaka and ending on June 30, the intensive two-week training brought together 30 members from across Southern Africa including Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique, and South Africa representing diverse ministries such as youth outreach, formation, interreligious dialogue, and pastoral care.
The initiative was spearheaded by the Congregation’s department for Integrity in Ministry and led by Fr. Lowrent Kamwanza, who emphasized that safeguarding is not a one-off mandate but an ongoing mission rooted in Gospel values, formation, and accountability. Speaking to Vatican Media, Fr. Kamwanza highlighted that safeguarding must be embedded in the missionary identity of the Church and aligned with the legacy of Cardinal Charles Lavigerie, founder of the Missionaries of Africa.
Fr. Kamwanza noted that the purpose of the workshop was threefold: to raise awareness, equip missionaries with practical skills to handle safeguarding concerns, and update the province's safeguarding guidelines. “It is not merely a response to policy; it is a Gospel imperative,” he said, underlining that the workshop fostered deeper awareness and commitment through open discussions, inter-cultural exchange, and pastoral discernment.
The tone of the gathering was marked by fraternity and seriousness, with participants creating a safe space to explore difficult topics. The event was graced by provincial and general leadership, including Fr. Christian Mulenga and Fr. Pawel Hulecki, whose support reinforced the gravity of the mission.
Fr. Kamwanza revealed that the safeguarding initiative, which began with workshops in Rwanda (2024) and Burundi (February 2025), will extend next to West Africa in 2026, pending resources. These efforts are part of a broader strategy to build a safer Church culture one that breaks silence, uplifts accountability, and fosters healing.
He concluded, “Safeguarding is not optional. It is our shared responsibility to protect the ones Christ loved most the little ones and the vulnerable.”