By: Mwenya Chitambala
In August, our team gathered in Lubumbashi, DRC, for an in-person Training on Energy Transition that brought together an inspiring number of participants, 130 in the room, with many more following via Radio Maria’s livestream. This training was not only a moment of learning, but also an
opportunity to expand our Training of Trainers (ToT) programme as we work towards our goal of forming 1,000 Laudato Si’ Animators (LSAs) before the end of 2025.
Here are a few concepts that we observed over the course of the training
Faith in Action: Judge – What Does Our Faith Say?
One of the most engaging moments occurred during a breakout session titled “Judge: What does our Faith say?” Here, Catholics, Anglicans, Muslims, congregations, traders, and civil society groups reflected deeply on their values, traditions, and identities that compel them to act for creation and justice. The richness of interfaith dialogue underscored the strength of working together across boundaries.
Support from Church Leadership
We were honoured to be received by Mgr Fulgence Muteba Mugalu, Metropolitan Archbishop of Lubumbashi and President of the Bishops’ Conference of DRC. His archdiocese, home to vast deposits of copper and cobalt, lies at the heart of extractivism in the country.
Blog Lubumbashi: Churches and Civil Society Unite for Training on Energy Transition
Mgr Fulgence affirmed his support for our work, linking it with his annual pastoral theme: “Truly, we are part of the Environment.” He has consistently raised a prophetic voice against human rights violations and environmental injustices caused by multinational mining companies. His upcoming Season of Creation statement will further highlight the urgent need for a just energy transition in the DRC.
A Colourful Closing Mass
Our week of action concluded with a moving Mass celebrated by Abbé Benoît Mukwanga, focal point of the National Commission on Natural Resources in Haut-Katanga, delegated by Mgr Fulgence. Co-celebrating were Franciscan priests who had taken part in the training.
Before Mass, participants carried out a climate procession, walking from the Pastoral Centre of Lubumbashi with banners denouncing exploitative mining practices and calling for a swift energy transition.
Interfaith Partnerships Strengthened
We also had the privilege of meeting Mgr Bertin, Anglican Bishop of Katanga, who leads the Green Anglican movement. Joined by ten Anglican reverends who participated in the training, Bishop Bertin pledged his support for the Season of Creation and the energy transition agenda. This commitment, alongside Catholic leaders, religious congregations, Muslims, Caritas, Justice & Peace, CERN, Radio Maria, and civil society, marks a powerful network of collaboration in Lubumbashi.
Bearing Witness at Mining Sites
To conclude our visit, the team conducted an outreach mission to mining sites in Ruasha and Gécamines, where we listened to communities struggling with the devastating impacts of extractivism on their health, livelihoods, education, and environment. Standing on the scarred earth, our LSAs were moved to recite the Energy Transition Prayer, grounding advocacy in faith and solidarity with affected people.
Looking Ahead
The Lubumbashi mission showed us what is possible when faith, community, and justice converge. With the commitment of local bishops, interfaith leaders, youth, and civil society, the DRC is raising a united voice for climate justice and a transition to renewable energy. Together, we are building a movement strong enough to transform not only policies, but also hearts and communities.