Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa
Secretariat:
P.O. Box 21191 NAIROBI, Kenya
Telephone: +254 20 3878008 / 10
Fax: 3878009, 3871590
E-mail: amecea@africaonline.co.ke

The 16th AMECEA Plenary Meeting

Reconciliation through Justice and Peace
in AMECEA Region
27th June – 7th July 2008
Lusaka, Zambia

- Report No.4

July 01, 2008

MY IMPRESSION ON THE 16TH PLENARY AMECEA ASSEMBLY – DAY 3
From James Ngahy M.Afr.

It is a fact that the issues of Reconciliation, Justice and Peace have become global issues. The Church in the AMECEA countries has taken these issues very seriously since they do touch the lives of her people and the church as a whole.

I am personally impressed to see how dedicated the Bishops and other participants are in this plenary session. On the third day of its session, the discussions centred on three themes namely, “How has Ecclesia in Africa made a difference in AMECEA Region with Respect to Justice and Peace,” which was delivered by Fr. Peter Lwaminda. Fr. Lwaminda analysed his topic from a historical viewpoint while emphasizing the prophetic role of the contemporary church without compromising her values. In this way, people will be liberated, hence, internalise the gospel values, the word of God in their lives.

He went on suggesting that the Church should involve lay people in their different competences in bringing peace and justice especially in the AMECEA region since most of the countries are torn by conflicts and warfare.

The second paper was on “Social, Political and Economic Governance” presented by Fr. Komakoma from Zambia. His presentation analysed politics as an activity open to all citizens and not limited to politicians alone. He encouraged the participants and Christians to better understand the politics of their countries and region, and make their positive contribution towards it.

Mrs. Minisa Chubuye made the last presentation based on “Poverty and Social Justice in AMECEA countries.” The lady seriously challenged the church on how to promote human dignity, and fight against oppressive structures that lead to suffering, inequality and poverty. The participants expressed great interest in the subject and they made a lot of contributions on the subject presented. Testimonies too from the panel of Bishops from Uganda, Sudan, Kenya, Eritrea, Ethiopia and Somalia were given, just to concretise or contextualise the theme of Reconciliation through Justice and Peace as some of these countries face serious conflicts and violence.

All in all, this plenary session on its third day continues to challenge all of us who are trying to promote reconciliation through Justice and Peace. It is indeed an encouragement that cannot be taken for granted!

James Ngahy, M. Afr.,
Peace Studies and International Relations,Hekima College,
Nairobi. July 01, 2008