The JCAM president, Fr. José Minaku, SJ has announced the establishment of the JCAM Commission for Formation, in accordance with Resolution 3 of the Conference's just concluded Major Superiors' Plenary Assembly, which was held in AFRICAMA House, Nairobi-Kenya, a body tasked with supporting the implementation of the Conference's formation priorities and resolutions.

The Commission will be chaired by Fr Deogratias Rwezaura, SJ, the JCAM Delegate for Formation, and brings together Jesuits from across the Conference who represent the various stages and dimensions of Jesuit formation.

Its members include:

1. Fr Didmus Shirima, SJ (AOR), Vocation Promoter

2. Fr Arthur Niry Lanto, SJ (MDG), Novice Director

3. Fr Chioma Nwosu, SJ (JCAM), Rector, Arrupe Jesuit Community

4. Fr Emmanuel Foro, SJ (CAM), Rector, Hekima Jesuit Community

5. Fr Nathan Miti, SJ (SAP), Tertian Instructor

6. Fr Abdon Rwandeke, SJ (RWB), Delegate for Formation

7. Fr Dieudonné Mbiribindi, SJ (ACE), Dean, Saint Pierre Canisius

8. Br Francis Erzuah, SJ (ANW), Doctoral Researcher in International Politics.

The composition of the Commission has been carefully designed to reflect the entire journey of Jesuit formation, from vocation promotion and novitiate through philosophical and theological studies to tertianship. To broaden its perspective, the Conference has also included a Jesuit Brother and an academic programme leader, ensuring that the voices of different experiences and stages of formation are represented.

The newly established Commission will assist the Conference Delegate for Formation in strengthening collaboration, reflection, and planning around formation across JCAM. Its first meeting, to be convened by Fr Rwezaura in the coming weeks, will determine the Commission's working methods and programme of activities.

Conference leadership has expressed confidence that the Commission's work will enrich formation efforts throughout the region and contribute positively to the mission of the Society of Jesus. Major Superiors whose men have been appointed and communities are encouraged to support the availability of the appointed members as they undertake this important service.

The Commission begins its mandate with the support and prayers of the Conference with the hope of fostering a renewed and coordinated vision for Jesuit formation, helping to prepare future companions for effective service to the Church and society throughout Africa and Madagascar and the wider Society of Jesus.