Accra, 23 January, 2026 / 7:34 PM
Members of the Standing Committee of the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM) have convened in Accra, Ghana, to deliberate on and approve their 2025–2028 Strategic Plan.
The meeting, taking place from January 21 to 24 at the SECAM Secretariat in Accra, officially marks the opening of the 2025–2028 mandate of the continental body.
About 20 SECAM officials are attending the meeting that is chaired by Fridolin Cardinal Ambongo Besungu, Local Ordinary of Kinshasa Archdiocese and SECAM’s President. Participants include 14 Catholic Bishops representing various regions of Africa and the island nations.
According to a press release from SECAM, the gathering is intended to provide clear orientation for the new mandate by strengthening coordination among regional Episcopal Conferences and consolidating SECAM’s pastoral mission on the continent.
At the heart of the discussions is the “review and approval” of the Strategic Plan for 202-28, a key policy document expected to guide SECAM’s priorities and actions over the next three years.
The plan outlines strategic directions in evangelization, ecclesial governance, pastoral formation, and the Church’s social engagement in Africa.
SECAM members are also examining pathways for implementing the Synod on Synodality, launched by the late Pope Francis to promote a more participatory, listening, and missionary Church.
In this context, the Accra meeting is exploring practical ways to deepen listening, co-responsibility, and collaboration among the faithful, pastors, and Church structures.
The session opens a new cycle of governance for SECAM and is widely seen as a significant moment for the life of the Catholic Church in Africa.
The continental body is seeking to renew momentum in its mission while addressing pressing challenges such as peace and reconciliation, social justice, Clergy formation, interreligious dialogue, and the promotion of the common good.
The outcomes and resolutions of the Permanent Committee meeting are expected to be communicated at the conclusion of the session on January 24.
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