Lusaka, Zambia – May 25, 2026: The East Africa Conference of Capuchins (EACC) successfully held its Plenary Meeting on May 25, 2026, at Laverna Formation House in Lusaka, Zambia. The one-day meeting brought together participants from across the conference to review ongoing initiatives, assess progress, and make key decisions regarding the future of the Order within the region.
Br. Worku Demeke, OFMCap. (CAMSA SECRETARY)
The day commenced at 6:15 a.m. with the praying of the Angelus and a period of meditation, followed by the celebration of the Holy Eucharist. The plenary session officially began at 8:30 a.m. and continued until 6:00 p.m., providing ample time for thorough deliberation on all agenda items.
Among the key matters discussed were the reading and approval of the minutes from the previous meeting, progress reports from the circumscriptions, updates on the preparation of the Ratio Formationis Localis for EACC, issues arising from PANAF, the election of delegates to the Ninth Plenary Council of the Order (IX PCO), common formation houses within EACC, JPIC initiatives, conference subscriptions, and the pursuit of self-sustainability.
Participants expressed satisfaction with the overall situation across the circumscriptions, noting that the brothers are carrying out their ministries effectively and that no major difficulties were reported. However, concern was raised regarding xenophobia-related challenges in South Africa, which continue to complicate visa applications and renewals for some brothers.
The meeting also received an encouraging report on the preparation of the Ratio Formationis Localis. While progress is being made, participants acknowledged that the process remains behind schedule and emphasized the importance of providing support whenever the drafting team seeks collaboration.
Regarding PANAF, the assembly recognized positive developments but noted that delays in receiving requested information remain a challenge. Participants expressed hope that the recent letter from the General Minister will encourage more timely responses and agreed that Major Superiors should continue motivating the brothers to participate actively in the process.
A significant milestone of the meeting was the successful election of four EACC delegates who will represent the Conference at the Ninth Plenary Council of the Order (IX PCO). Their names have been officially submitted to the General Secretary.
In the area of formation, the participants designated Lusaka and Addis Ababa as common centres for philosophy formation, while Nairobi, Morogoro, and Kampala were confirmed as common centres for theology formation. These decisions aim to strengthen collaboration and ensure quality formation throughout the Conference. The assembly also reviewed the EACC Justice, Peace and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) report and approved a proposal to convene a JPIC meeting in Nairobi in May 2027.
Discussions on self-sustainability highlighted the commendable efforts being undertaken by individual circumscriptions. Nevertheless, participants acknowledged that considerable work remains before full financial self-sufficiency can be achieved. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to intensify efforts toward sustainable development and resource management.
Following a productive day of reflection, dialogue, and decision-making, the plenary meeting was formally adjourned at 6:00 p.m. on May 25, 2026.