From July 15–19, the regional family chairs from across Africa gathered in Nairobi, Kenya, for the annual Africa D-Group — a refreshing time of learning centered on the meeting’s theme, “Rooted and Growing,” fellowship, and forward-looking conversations about the future of our churches across the continent.

Hosted by Samson and Judy Monda (East Africa) at the beautiful Masai Lodge just outside Nairobi National Park, the gathering brought together the regional family chairs (RFCs) and regional administrators from Africa’s five regions. For the first time, the wives of the married administrators also joined the meeting, adding a valuable extra dimension of encouragement, learning, and connection.

Representing the regions were:

  • Samson and Judy Monda – East Africa
  • Jide and Biola Ojo – English West Africa
  • Emmanuel and Agnès Koffi – French West Africa
  • Moses and Honorine Kalala – Central Africa
  • Edwin and Christine Shumba – Southern Africa

Throughout the week, participants were strengthened by practical, Christ-centered lessons that focused on both personal spiritual growth and healthy leadership.

Some of the lessons included:

  • “Rooted in Christ and Growing,” taught by Moses Kalala, emphasized the importance of developing deep spiritual roots to continue growing as leaders.
  • “Church Health and Connection,” presented by Jide and Biola Ojo, explored building healthy, connected churches.
  • “The Theology of Marriage,” taught by Samson and Judy Monda, focused on encouraging couples to return to God’s design for marriage rather than conforming to the world’s standards.
  • Emmanuel Koffi, the outgoing African regional chair, shared about the vital connection between the health of the church and the integrity and personal lives of its leaders.
  • Sam Onuoha, administrator for English West Africa, spoke about fostering strong relationships between ministry staff and administrators, encouraging everyone to use their unique gifts while reflecting Christ’s humility and servant heart.

One of the most meaningful moments of the conference came on the last day, when the chairmanship of the African regional family was officially handed over from Emmanuel and Agnès Koffi to Moses and Honorine Kalala.

The conference was not only a time of teaching but also of building lasting friendships. Participants enjoyed a special dinner on Saturday evening, followed by traditional Maasai dancing, before concluding the gathering on Sunday as the RFCs preached in different regions of the Nairobi church.

Reflections from participants

“The opportunity to connect, listen to one another, and strengthen our relationships made the gathering especially meaningful. We left encouraged, better aligned, and with renewed commitment to the mission ahead. A special and heartfelt thank you to the Mission Point Christian Church (in San Antonio, Texas) for making this gathering possible. Your generosity and investment in this important gathering are deeply appreciated. May God continue to bless and multiply the impact of your contribution to the work of his Kingdom.” – Jide and Biola Ojo (Nigeria)

“What encouraged me in Nairobi was seeing leaders and administrators with the same heart to serve God wholeheartedly, even in hard places, and how unity and purpose can carry us further than titles ever could.” – Edwin Shumba (Zimbabwe)

“What I enjoyed most was being together as the five couples, getting to know one another better and building deeper relationships. It made the learning process even richer. I walked away with many life and ministry lessons from men and women who love God deeply and have faithfully persevered through both the joys and challenges of ministry.” – Christine Shumba (Zimbabwe)

“I learned the importance of inner transformation and relying on God, practising humility in every aspect of my life, living with integrity, and remaining spiritually healthy to lead a healthy ministry.” – Oluwunmi Onuoha (Nigeria)

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all the international churches that faithfully provide financial support to the sister congregations in the African regions.

And another special vote of thanks to the organizers, the Nairobi ICOC, and Michael Koutouan (the administrator for French West Africa), who tirelessly provided English and French translation for the lessons and responses throughout the week.

Please continue to pray for the leaders and churches throughout Africa, asking God to grant wisdom, unity, and strength as they continue serving as his hands and feet across the continent.

To God be all the glory!