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From July 8 to 12, the Core Group of the Global Ignatian Advocacy Network (GIAN) on Integral Ecology (EcoJesuit) convened in Lusaka, Zambia.
This pivotal meeting brought together Jesuit delegates from South Asia, Europe, Latin America, and Africa - Madagascar, along with Fr. José Minaku, SJ, the president of the Jesuit Conference of Africa and Madagascar (JCAM), Fr. Roberto Jaramillo Bernal, SJ, the secretary of Social Justice and Ecology Secretariat (SJES), Fr. Charles Chilufya, SJ, Director Jesuit Justice and Ecology Network Africa (JENA) and Fr. Pedro Walpole, SJ, the current coordinator of EcoJesuit, and other collaborators from Kenya, Madagascar, and Zambia.
Over four intense days, the group successfully achieved several key objectives:
Experiencing Kasisi Agricultural Training Center (KATC): The visit to KATC was inspirational, showcasing significant efforts and impacts in agroecology. The center has been instrumental in helping small and medium-scale producers improve their livelihoods, embodying the Jesuit mission to uplift the poor. Kasisi stands as a beacon of life and progress, influencing agricultural policy and development in Zambia for over 50 years.
Strengthening EcoJesuit's Framework: Discussions centered on enhancing the organization and functionality of EcoJesuit. The group explored ways to bolster its actions and future directions, aiming to consolidate its advocacy efforts, especially in preparation for the upcoming COP 29 and COP 30 meetings.
Advocacy and Global Action: The group identified key areas for EcoJesuit's advocacy: finance and climate change, food systems, and inclusion, particularly the rights of indigenous peoples. Three working groups were established, led by Felipe Martins (JESC), Ngonidzashe Edward (JCAM), and Agnaldo Junior and John Kennedy (CPAL-JCSA). These groups will focus on expanding inter-institutional networks and deepening advocacy actions.
COP 30 Preparations: An online meeting with Jesuits from Brazil highlighted preparations for COP 30, set for November 2025 in Belém do Pará. EcoJesuit aims to actively participate in both formal negotiations and social movements, influencing global climate policy and discussions.
The meeting concluded with a cultural immersion, including a safari near Lusaka and a visit to a Zambian art gallery, fostering camaraderie and reflection among participants.
The gathering underscored the commitment to integral ecology, with heartfelt thanks extended to Pedro Walpole, Charles Chilufya and his JENA team, Ngonidzashe Edward, José Minaku, Fr. Provincial Leonard Chiti, and all Jesuits in Lusaka for their hospitality and support.
For further engagement, Jesuits and collaborators are encouraged to prepare for COP 29 by understanding their countries' positions and actively participating in national discussions.
For more details on EcoJesuit's initiatives and the outcomes of the Lusaka meeting, visit the official Social Justice and Ecology Secretariat website or the EcoJesuit website.
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