Interfaith Academy unites African religious leaders for peace in Johannesburg

TEBOHO LEBESA

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – Nearly 300 faith leaders, peacebuilders, and community representatives gathered at the Sandton Convention Centre for the inaugural Africa Religious Peace Academy.

The event, themed “Bridging Beliefs: Advancing Peace Through Interfaith Harmony in Africa,” marked a historic effort to transform spiritual diversity into a unified network for reconciliation.

Co-hosted by Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL) and the Sikh Council of Africa, the academy provided a platform for leaders across denominations to address shared challenges through cooperation.

Deputy Minister, Dr Namane Dickson Masemola, emphasized the role of faith leaders in fostering social cohesion: “This gathering affirms our commitment to interfaith dialogue and cohesive governance – a compass setting moment for Africa and the world.”

The program featured reflections from multiple traditions. Representatives from African Indigenous Spirituality, Islam, Christianity, and Sikhism emphasized justice, reconciliation, and collective welfare.

A highlight was the presentation of the “Charter for Forgiveness” by Professor Mohinder Singh Ahluwalia, offering a framework for healing divided communities.

HWPL Regional Director, Beom Jun Park, urged attendees to build a lasting legacy of peace: “A peaceful Africa is not only the vision of Agenda 2063 – it is a vision we all share. We must lay the foundation for future generations.”

The event concluded with the signing of three Memorandums of Understanding between HWPL and key organizations, strengthening interfaith partnerships and advancing peace across the continent. Delegates left with a renewed commitment to turning diversity into unity through collaboration.