All African Conference of Churches (AACC) has convened a symposium to explore the gap between religious freedom and oversight by the government in the aftermath of the Shakahola massacre.
The conference has attracted over 80 participants from various sectors, including church leaders, non-church leaders, theologians, and policymakers.
The 5th Annual Misleading Theologies Symposium seeks to examine the role of the government in regulating churches and religious institutions in Africa.
“In the wake of the misleading and life-threatening religious beliefs and practices today, such as the tragic Shakahola massacre, where hundreds of Kenyans lost their lives due to cult and extremist beliefs, it has become apparent that there is an urgent need for a critical examination of church regulations and the dangerous indoctrination of the communities across the continent,” AACC said in a statement.
The meeting is taking place from October 29 to November 1, 2024 at The Desmond Tutu Conference Centre in Nairobi.
AACC Programme Executive for Theology and Inter-Faith Relations John Njoroge invited the public to engage in the conversation “to ensure faith remains a source of hope and not harm.”
AACC observed that in Rwanda, the government passed strict regulations to curb the proliferation of unregistered churches.
"While the government should not interfere in religious matters, there is a need for a framework that ensures the safety and well-being of our citizens. This symposium will seek to explore the gap between religious freedom and necessary oversight," AACC General Secretary Fidon Mwombeki.
The symposium will discuss topics such as the role of government in religious institutions, mitigating tensions for the public good, and approaches for churches in addressing regulatory challenges.
It will emphasise ecumenical responsibility, encouraging dialogue and collaboration among Christian and non-Christian denominations to take a unified stance on addressing the challenges posed by unregulated religious practices while respecting the diversity of faith freedoms and expressions.
“This is important in ensuring a safer and more accountable religious environment in Africa,” Mwombeki added.
