November 11, 2016, Abuja, Nigeria –
Religious leaders, policy makers, scholars and representatives of civil society organisations from more than thirty (30) African countries gathered at the 2nd Interfaith Dialogue Forum, held from 10 to 11 November 2016 in Abuja, Nigeria. The Forum recognised the importance of interreligious and intra-faith dialogue as a tool for peacebuilding and development in Africa. Following an intensive two-day deliberation, the delegates approved a Declaration and a Plan of Action on their joint work in education, partnerships, media and development. The Forum was jointly organised by the African Union Commission through the Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO) and the International Dialogue Centre (KAICIID).
The Declaration acknowledges the need to build partnerships between the African Union, interfaith, faith-based groups, organisations and religious leaders and reiterates their commitment to play an effective role in the successful implementation of the African Aspirations outlined in the Continental Agenda 2063 framework.
As part of the Action Plan, the African Union will support the Steering Committee to establish a 10 year interfaith development agenda for all African Union member states.
The Forum succeeded in electing a Steering Committee of two years’ term to support and strengthen the process of interreligious and intercultural dialogue within African countries and communities.
Read full article here.