
Collage from Kenya interfaith media briefing, Nigeria and Madagascar actions
During the 2024 Season of Creation, faith leaders across Africa came together to amplify the call for a Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty (FFNPT), marking a critical moment of hope and action for creation. The Global Day of Action on September 21st saw Laudato Si’ Movement chapters across the continent actively participating in raising awareness and rallying support for a fossil-free future.
In Kenya, in partnership with the Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative, we organized an interfaith media briefing on September 20th, with representatives from various faith traditions. The event served not only as a platform for African media to cover developments related to the FFNPT but also as a powerful moment to rally faith communities and the public behind the treaty’s call. On September 21st, public actions and rallies took place across Nigeria, Kenya, and Madagascar, where local animators echoed the call for the treaty supported by from the Symposium of Episcopal Conferences of Africa and Madagascar (SECAM): a united demand for a fossil-free future.
In Abuja, Nigeria, Laudato Si’ animators and youth gathered outside the Catholic Secretariat of Nigeria, urging political and faith leaders to endorse the treaty. “Finding ways to have solidarity across the regions is critical in our journey in calling an end to fossil fuel use and a transition to renewable energy,” said Bonny Oboh, the chapter leader of Nigeria.
In Madagascar, animators took a more creative approach, calling on local faith leaders to join the movement. Meanwhile, in Kenya, rallies focused on pushing the government to heed the people’s call for a fossil fuel phase-out. Rose Kerubo, the chapter leader of the Laudato Si’ Movement in Kenya, voiced her concern: “It is concerning that almost half of Africa does not have access to energy, and the number is increasing. By transitioning away from an energy pathway that has proved inefficient and tapping into forms of renewable and clean energy, we can promote local development.”
Sophie Rakotoroalahy, Assistant Chapter Coordinator in Madagascar, emphasized the role of creativity in this mission: “Using media, art, creativity, and engaging in public advocacy, prayer moments, and small actions for the care for our common home is the best way to urge others to support the cause.”
Join us by adding your name to the faith letter, standing in solidarity with those calling for a just and fossil-free future.