Livingstone, Zambia – The Southern Africa Province (SAP) recently played host to the 72nd Bi-Annual Plenary Meeting of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM).

In the locality of the breathtaking mighty Victoria Falls locally known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“the smoke that thunders”) Major Superiors (Provincials) from across the continent gathered from 14–20 April 2026, at the Jesuit Villa House in Livingstone, Zambia’s tourist capital.

Welcoming his fellow provincials, Fr. Leonard Chiti, SJ, Provincial of the Southern Africa Province, emphasized the significance of collaboration, discernment, and unity as the confreres worked together to shape a renewed strategic vision for the Society of Jesus in the region.

The plenary brought together provincials from all seven Jesuit provinces that constitute JCAM. At the heart of their discussions was the renewal of the JCAM Apostolic Plan, a process rooted in deep listening to the experiences, challenges, and emerging priorities of each province.

Central to this renewal is Jesuit formation, which was identified as the top priority for strengthening the Society’s mission and ensuring the continued growth and effectiveness of Jesuit ministries across Africa and Madagascar.

“Formation is the heart of the mission,” affirmed JCAM leadership, underscoring the shared commitment to nurturing future generations of Jesuits.

This important continental gathering carries added significance, coming just three weeks after the Southern Africa Province marked its fifth anniversary. The milestone made SAP’s role as host especially meaningful.

Representing the Superior General at the meeting was Fr. Chukwuyenum “Chuks” Afiawari, SJ, the Interim Assistant for Africa–Madagascar. Also present was the current JCAM President, Fr. José Minaku Lukoli, SJ, his Assistant (Socius) Fr. John The Baptist Anyeh-Zamcho, SJ, and the JCAM Formation Delegate Fr. Deogratias Rwezaura, SJ.

From Zambia to Madagascar

The renewal process, which began in October 2025, will continue at the next JCAM Plenary, scheduled for April 2027 in Antananarivo, Madagascar. This year’s plenary focused specifically on the renewal of the JCAM Apostolic Plan, with formation remaining the central pillar.

The gathering also recalled a rich history: the first meeting of what was then known as Jesuit Superiors of Africa and Madagascar (JESAM) was held in Lusaka, Zambia, in 1971. The conference later became JCAM in 2019, continuing its vital work as a coordinating body that supports Jesuit provinces in living out the universal mission of the Society through shared apostolic priorities.