Bezawit Assefa
The Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA) held a vital forum focused on climate change and environmental protection from April 13 to 17, 2026, in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. This event was part of their efforts to put into action the Church’s teachings from the document Laudato Si’, in collaboration with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia.
Delegates from AMECEA member countries came together to share their progress on environmental initiatives. They reviewed their achievements and discussed the challenges they face in addressing climate concerns. This exchange of ideas highlighted the ongoing commitment to caring for our planet.
Rev. Fr. Paul Igweta, the Coordinator of AMECEA’s Promoting Integral Human Development (PIHD) department, mentioned that the forum was also a step towards the 21st AMECEA Plenary Assembly scheduled for July 2026. “We used this meeting to reflect on our climate action efforts and plan for the future,” he stated. Attendees evaluated the progress made over the past four years based on seven key pillars introduced in 2022 during the AMECEA Plenary Assembly in Tanzania.
His Eminence Birhaneyesus Cardinal Demerew Souraphiel, President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Ethiopia, welcomed participants warmly. He spoke about Ethiopia’s rich natural heritage and the intrinsic bond between its people and the environment. The Cardinal highlighted that protecting the earth is a crucial Christian duty. Hosting this forum shows Ethiopia’s strong commitment to combating climate change.
During discussions, participants shared experiences with various Church institutions and partner organizations that are making a positive impact in environmental and climate-related services. There was a strong emphasis on building connections with the Laudato Si’ Movement and other supportive groups in the region.
At the end of the meeting, there was a call for a united Catholic voice on climate issues. Participants recognized the region’s vulnerability to environmental changes and stressed the need for active participation in both regional and global climate discussions. This includes important events like the 2nd African Climate Change Conference held last year and upcoming global meetings like COP32, where their voices can influence broader discussions.
According to a recent UN report, African nations are experiencing a 1.5°C increase in temperatures above pre-industrial levels, which emphasizes the urgency of these discussions. Engaging in forums like this one can help amplify the commitment towards climate action, creating stronger networks dedicated to environmental stewardship.
As communities continue to grapple with climate change, such gatherings remind us of the shared responsibility to protect our planet for future generations. The collaboration sparked at this forum could pave the way for meaningful changes across the region.
