AACC Convenes the 7th Annual Theological Symposium on Freedom of Belief and Persecution in Africa
The All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC) convened African theologians, church leaders, scholars and practitioners for the 7th Annual Theological Symposium on the theme “Freedom of Belief and Persecution in Africa.” Opened on 5th October 2026 at the Desmond Tutu Conference Center (DTCC) in Nairobi, Kenya, the symposium is bringing together voices from across the continent to reflect on religious freedom, the persecution of faith communities and the role of the Church in responding to emerging challenges affecting Christians in Africa.
In his keynote and opening remarks, the AACC General Secretary Rev. Dr. Fidon Mwombeki reflected on the evolution of the gathering from the former Misleading Theologies Symposium into the Annual Theological Symposium, describing the transition as an opportunity for African churches to engage in critical debate on issues shaping the continent. He observed that diversity in global faith communities can create tensions between dominant and minority religious groups, while persecution is often understood too narrowly through physical violence, terrorism and martyrdom.
Rev. Dr. Mwombeki highlighted the less visible forms of persecution including economic discrimination, legal marginalization and psychological trauma, which continue to affect countless religious minorities. He called for stronger support for local advocacy initiatives, greater attention to economic dimensions of persecution and efforts to challenge laws that facilitate discrimination or restrict freedom of belief.
“The 7th Annual Theological symposium seeks to create space for honest conversation, shared experiences and practical approaches to strengthening religious freedom and protecting the dignity of all people even at the era of persecutions and curtailed freedom of religion or belief.” Noted the AACC Executive Secretary for Theology and Interfaith Relations, Fr. Dr. John Njoroge.
In the photo: AACC General Secretary, Rev. Dr. Fidon Mwombeki opening the symposium [Courtesy: Fr. Dr. John Njoroge]
