Kigali: The heart of Africa’s Catholic leadership is beating strongly in Kigali this week, as more than 250 bishops from across the continent gather for the 20th Plenary Assembly of SECAM the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar. The high-profile event, hosted at the Kigali Convention Centre and opened with Holy Mass at Regina Pacis Parish, signals a renewed vision for the Church’s pastoral mission from 2025 to 2050.
The weeklong assembly, which is drawing not only bishops but also diplomats, government leaders, and Church dignitaries from other continents, is poised to redefine how the Catholic Church in Africa responds to both enduring challenges and emerging realities.
The opening day began in reverence, with Cardinal Peter Turkson presiding over the inaugural Mass at Kigali’s multilingual Regina Pacis Parish. The parish, known for its inclusive spirit, provided a symbolic setting for the gathering of leaders who aim to unify and guide Africa’s faithful in an increasingly fragmented world.
One of the key early sessions was led by Archbishop Gabriel Charles Palmer-Buckle of Cape Coast, Ghana, who walked participants especially newer bishops through the origins and mission of SECAM. His presentation, rich with insights from previous plenaries and papal documents, reminded the assembly that unity among African bishops is not just a logistical choice, but a spiritual and strategic necessity.
“We cannot afford to face today's challenges in isolation,” the Archbishop said. “From youth migration and ecological disasters to conflicts and cultural crises, we must respond with one voice rooted in faith, justice, and African identity.”
In a moving address, Rwandan Prime Minister Dr. Justin Nsengiyumva expressed deep appreciation for SECAM’s choice of Kigali as the host city. Praising the Church’s historical role in education, health, and reconciliation efforts, he called Africa “a continent at a crossroads.”
“The wounds of genocide and colonial legacy are healing, but new global pressures are mounting,” he warned. “The Church must rise as a voice of conscience, calling our leaders and people back to ethical governance, human dignity, and unity.”
Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, President of SECAM and Archbishop of Kinshasa, delivered a stirring keynote that resonated deeply with the continent’s current realities. Reflecting on the assembly’s theme "Christ, Source of Hope, Reconciliation, and Peace" he urged the Church to become a visible sign of unity amid political fragmentation, war, and displacement.
“Christ walks with Africa,” the Cardinal declared. “Our mission is not only theological but deeply pastoral. We must be artisans of peace in places where hope is scarce and wounds run deep.”
Apostolic Nuncio to Rwanda, Archbishop Arnaldo Sanchez Catalan, used his platform to advocate for peace between Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo. Highlighting the long-standing tensions in Eastern Congo, he expressed cautious optimism: “There have been many attempts before. Let this be the season when peace finds fertile ground.”
International solidarity was another strong theme. Cardinal Michael Czerny, from the Vatican’s Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, offered strategic proposals for long-term collaboration. Representatives from bishops’ conferences in Asia, Latin America, North America, and Europe echoed their commitment to walk alongside Africa’s Church in shared mission and fraternal support.
As sessions continue through the week, SECAM’s 2025–2050 roadmap is expected to focus on climate justice, interreligious dialogue, youth empowerment, governance, and the role of the laity. The assembly is not just an event it is a spiritual convocation laying down stepping stones for the African Church’s next 25 years. For Africa’s Catholic Bishops, Kigali is not just a venue; it is a vision. One where memory meets mission, and faith lights the way forward.