African Leaders' Alliance

An initiative of the Missionary Society, the SDB African Leaders Alliance is a united community of leaders committed to uplifting one another, sharing wisdom, and advancing God’s purpose together. It exists to strengthen collaboration among Seventh Day Baptist leaders across Africa through mutual encouragement, shared learning, and coordinated mission engagement, fostering gospel advancement and healthy church growth across the continent.

While an initial proposal envisioned a one-time symposium, the inaugural gathering affirmed a stronger and more sustainable direction, moving toward an ongoing relational and collaborative platform for leadership engagement across the continent.

As a result, the Alliance has been established as a continuing quarterly leadership forum rather than a single-event initiative.

SDB African Leaders Alliance Inaugural Meeting

The first official meeting on April 20, 2026, brought together leaders representing the following regions:

• Ghana – Elder Felix Ankrah 

• Rwanda – Pastor Jean De Dieu Karimutumye 

• Zambia – Quistin Chalwe 

• Ethiopia / South Sudan / Egypt – Pastor Kuol Kech Gach 

• Sierra Leone – Pastor Francis Mattia 

• Malawi – Pastor Fred Maduka 

Summary of the Inaugural Meeting

All participating leaders introduced themselves and shared updates on ministry work within their respective conferences. The discussion highlighted both encouraging growth and impactful ministry taking place across the region, as well as the ongoing need for increased financial resources to sustain and expand the work.

There was a strong and unified recognition that continued collaboration is both timely and necessary. Leaders expressed a shared commitment to strengthening partnerships and building deeper relational connections across African Conferences. The following were also decided:

1. The Alliance will transition from a one-time event concept to a standing quarterly leadership gathering. 

2. The next meeting is scheduled for July 6, 2026, and will be conducted via video conferencing to enhance participation and engagement. 

3. The six participating leaders will serve as the founding leadership team of the Alliance. 

4. Pastor Garfield will extend invitations to leaders from all other African SDB Conferences to join the Alliance. 

5. The following focus areas were agreed upon for the next meeting: strategies for achieving financial sustainability and ministry freedom, and a comprehensive report on all African nations where SDB work is currently active 

Forward Vision 

The initial concept of an African SDB Symposium served as the catalyst for this gathering. However, through discussion and discernment, the group concluded that a one-time symposium would not best serve the long-term needs of the churches.

Instead, the preferred direction is an ongoing quarterly Alliance, which provides sustained engagement, deeper relationships, and continuous strategic collaboration among leaders.

The inaugural meeting marks the beginning of a strengthened continental partnership among Seventh Day Baptist leaders in Africa. With quarterly gatherings now established, the Alliance provides a consistent platform for unity, shared learning, and coordinated mission impact across the continent.

-Pastor Garfield Miller

Reflection

God often works through leaders who commit to mutual support and shared vision. The African Leaders Alliance demonstrates how collaboration, ongoing encouragement, and strategic planning can strengthen churches across the continent. By choosing to meet regularly and share wisdom, these leaders are embodying the principle that unity and partnership multiply Kingdom impact.

Prayer Point

Pray for the founding leadership team of the SDB African Leaders Alliance and all African Conference leaders as they build this ongoing platform for collaboration. Ask God to guide their decisions, strengthen relationships, and provide wisdom for advancing gospel-centered ministry across Africa.

Reflection Question

Where in your own ministry or community could God be inviting you to deepen collaboration, share wisdom, or strengthen relationships for greater Kingdom impact?

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