Fr. Lowrent Kamwanza, M.Afr., recently led a transformative workshop in Burundi, entrusting the important mission of safeguarding minors and vulnerable people to the entire Church. The coordinator for the department of Integrity in Ministry of the Society of the Missionaries of Africa organized a two-week workshop in the Burundian capital, Bujumbura, for confreres serving in the Central Africa Province.
The workshop, held on February 15-16, aimed to equip 14 participants with the necessary skills to interact safely and respectfully with the people of God, especially minors and vulnerable individuals. Various experts in related fields presented at the workshop to enhance the learning experience.
During an interview with Vatican News, Fr. Kamwanza shed light on the main objectives of the safeguarding workshop. He emphasized the importance of creating safe environments within the Church, particularly for minors and vulnerable individuals. The workshop focused on updating progress in safeguarding, ongoing formation, and the development of a Safeguarding Policy and Code of Conduct tailored to the Central Africa Province.
Reflecting on the significance of these workshops for the Missionaries of Africa, Fr. Kamwanza highlighted the congregation’s commitment to safeguarding and prevention. The workshops serve as a platform to educate and equip members with the necessary knowledge to responsibly exercise their pastoral authority and interact safely with others in their mission.
The recent workshop in Bujumbura was a resounding success, with all objectives fully achieved. The final draft of the safeguarding policy for the province has been completed and will soon undergo review and approval by the Provincial Superior.
Looking ahead, Fr. Kamwanza shared plans for a similar initiative in Lusaka, Zambia, in June 2025. The Southern Africa Province will benefit from intensive training on safeguarding, emphasizing the mission of the entire Church to protect the vulnerable in society.
As the congregation celebrates the jubilee year of their founder, Cardinal Lavigerie, Fr. Kamwanza emphasized the enduring legacy of championing safeguarding. The mission continues to inspire and guide the congregation in their vital work within the Church.
