On 23 March, Rev. Dr Jooseop Keum, General Secretary of the Council for World Mission (CWM), together with Rev. Daimon Mkandawire, CWM Mission Secretary for Ecology and Economy, paid a visit to the Evangelical Congregational Church in Angola (Igreja Evangélica Congregacional em Angola, IECA) to express solidarity and strengthen the partnership in mission.
They were accompanied by Rev. Ndebele Kudzani, General Secretary of the United Congregational Church of Southern Africa (UCCSA), and Rev. Wellington Mthobisi Sibanda, UCCSA Media Liaison Officer.
Being the beacon of God’s peace in a war-torn land
Keum, who was invited to preach during the Sunday service, acknowledged that through God’s grace, IECA has continued to thrive in the face of historical challenges, including those posed by socialism.
Referencing 2 Corinthians 4:9–10, Keum commended IECA’s resilience and strength in its central and pivotal role in healing the country’s wounds sustained during the drawn-out civil war, and in being a vocal advocate for reconciliation, peace, and integration.
He also urged IECA to continue investing in and empowering its youth, recognising them as vital to the future of both the church and Angolan society.
Transforming life through education
As part of the visit, Keum also visited the Congregational University of IECA, where he met with current and former church leaders, including Rev. Dr Cangovi, former IECA General Secretary, and Rev. Dr Luciano Chienuqe, a member of the UCCSA Executive Committee.
In discussions with faith leaders and academics, Keum emphasized the importance of expanding academic programmes in technology, engineering, and science. He affirmed the church’s commitment to holistic development and its vital role in advancing education and innovation as part of a broader vision of a flourishing, transformed society.
