The role of the Church in Africa is shifting from one of quiet lament to active, prophetic transformation. This was the resounding message at the recently concluded Africa Communion of Reformed Churches (ACRC) workshop, which brought together over 50 delegates from across the continent.
Held at the Milele Hotel in Nairobi from May 28th to May 29th, 2026, the two-day gathering united church leaders, academics, and ecumenical partners from nations including Nigeria, Ghana, South Africa, Malawi, Ethiopia, and Kenya. Representing St. Paul’s University-Kenya was our Acting Vice Chancellor, Prof. Esther Mombo, who joined other distinguished voices to discern the Church’s role in Africa's evolving geopolitical landscape.
The Theme: A Call to Discern and Act
Under the theme “Reading the Signs of the Time: Current Geopolitical Position of Africa, Challenges and Opportunities for the Church,” the workshop served as a vital platform for fellowship, discernment, and prophetic engagement.
Participants were challenged to move beyond traditional boundaries and become a discerning, confessing, witnessing, and continually reformed Church. The ACRC emphasized that the Church cannot afford to be a passive bystander to the economic and social realities affecting the continent. Instead, it must actively participate in societal transformation—working hand-in-hand with governments, civil society, and local communities to confront injustice and nurture hope.
"The Church must faithfully read the signs of the times and chart missional pathways that uphold the dignity of every African person."
Key Insights from Distinguished Speakers
The workshop featured a robust lineup of thought leaders and academics who addressed the multifaceted challenges facing modern Africa:
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Navigating Economic Headwinds: Dr. Julius Kipngetich delivered insights on steering through Africa’s economic shifts, geopolitical changes, corporate governance, and the necessity of sustainable church leadership.
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The Digital & Cultural Frontier: Rev. Dr. Kevin Muriithi Ndereba spoke on reading digital and cultural signs, urging the Church to remain relevant in a rapidly technological world.
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Gender Justice: Our own Prof. Esther Mombo shared profound reflections on gender justice and the critical importance of reclaiming the prophetic voice of the church to protect the vulnerable.
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Value-Based Governance: Rev. Dr. Linda Ochola focused on activating grassroots civic transformation and value-based governance through the local church.
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Advocacy & Peace Building: Canon Chris Kinyanjui addressed the complexities of legislative advocacy, peacebuilding, and ethical governance within fragile political landscapes.
Strengthening Ecumenical Ties
The ACRC, a vital sub-group of the World Communion of Reformed Churches (WCRC), demonstrated strong institutional leadership at the event. Key dignitaries in attendance included:
| Leader | Role |
| Most Rev. Dr. U. Onwunta | ACRC President |
| Rev. Dr. L. Mpetsheni | ACRC General Secretary |
| Rev. Dr. Robert Waihenya | PCEA Secretary General & WCRC Executive Member |
Moving Forward
As the workshop concluded, the mandate left for African theological institutions and church bodies was clear: to foster a faith that does not shy away from political, economic, and digital realities, but rather engages them to restore human dignity across the continent. St. Paul’s University remains committed to walking this missional path, equipping the next generation of leaders to read the signs of the times with wisdom and courage.
