Conference on Africa’s Faith Communities Opens in Addis Ababa

Addis Ababa, May 13, 2025 (FMC) – A two-day continental conference on “Africa’s Faith Communities in Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals, the AU Agenda 2063, and the G20 South Africa 2025 Process” commenced this morning in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

The gathering, which runs from May 13 to 14, 2025, focuses primarily on peacebuilding and climate change, while also addressing critical themes such as human rights protection, natural resource management, and education.

Organizers have underscored that the deliberations and outcomes of the conference will significantly contribute to the forthcoming G20 Interfaith Forum, positioning African voices at the heart of global dialogue.

The overarching objective of the interfaith conference is to strengthen partnerships between Africa’s faith communities and key stakeholders—including the African Union—to accelerate progress in development, peacebuilding, and inclusive cooperation.

The annual forum serves as a platform to promote interfaith and intercultural harmony, encouraging unity in diversity across the continent.

The event is jointly organized by the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, the United Religions Initiative–Africa, and the G20 Interfaith Forum, in collaboration with various AU institutions.

Ethiopia, renowned for its long-standing tradition of religious coexistence and tolerance, is expected to share its unique experiences with participants from across the continent.

The conference has brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including religious and traditional leaders, interfaith and faith-based organizations, members of the diplomatic community, policymakers, NGOs, scholars, and civil society representatives from Africa and beyond.