AJANews March Edition

This March 2025, AJAN stands in solidarity with the global community in commemorating International Women’s Day 2025, marking World Tuberculosis Day, and celebrating the 120th anniversary of the Chikuni Jesuit Mission.

In response to the second Universal Apostolic Preference; walking with the poor, the outcasts of the world, and those whose dignity has been violated in a mission of reconciliation and justice, this year’s theme, “Accelerate Action,” serves as a powerful reminder. Every girl and woman, regardless of background or status, deserves equal access to opportunities and the freedom to pursue her aspirations.

We also observe World Tuberculosis (TB) Day on March 24. It is the world’s deadliest infectious disease, the leading cause of death for people living with HIV, and a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance-related deaths.  TB claimed 1.25 million lives in 2023, according to the World Health Organization, with more than 80% of cases and deaths occurring in low- and middle-income countries. AJAN joins the rest of the world in raising awareness, strengthening early detection, diagnosis and adherence to prescribed medication and ensuring that no one is left behind in the fight against.

Amidst all this, we join the Jesuits in the Southern Africa Province in celebrating 120 years of Chikuni Mission and 25 years of Chikuni Community Radio Station. In response to the signs of the times and the needs of the community, Chikuni Jesuit Mission, established a diverse group of institutions to spread the Good News and provide holistic care for people living with HIV (PLHIV). Over the years, Chikuni Jesuit Mission, has supported the community through self-reliant projects such as farming and gardening, while women receive training and form cooperatives for income-generating activities. With support from AJAN, young people are also becoming social entrepreneurs.

Congratulations to Fr. Mulobela Gregory, SJ, head of the Chikuni Mission, and his dedicated team for their leadership and commitment!

We also proudly feature the overall winners of the AHAPPY Youth Storytelling Contest 2024 from Centre Arrupe Madagascar. The short film by Rasolonjatovo Jean Bebeto, a young man from Madagascar, stood out for its quality and, more importantly, for addressing the issue of drug abuse. This contest not only helped discover exceptional young talents but also conveyed powerful messages about the major challenges facing our society today.

In this issue, read about AJAN Director Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ.’s visit to St. Ignatius Center in Kingabwa, St. Kizito Parish, Kinshasa (DRC), where he met with women and girls benefiting from the Building Resilience in Women and Girls in Africa (BRWGA) project. The young people expressed gratitude for learning sewing and life skills, while about thirty adult women, including those living with HIV, received financial support to boost their income-generating activities. Their inspiring testimonies highlight how, with CLC’s support, they have become one family.

We acknowledge the staff and students who are part of the AHAPPY Club in Bukavu, who convened for a seminar on “Sexuality in Africa: Its Taboos and Consequences – What Does Medicine Think?” This theme is part of the broader effort to educate and raise awareness among young students about sexuality in general, and HIV & AIDS in particular.

This month, we invite you to peruse our AJAN Annual Report 2024. The report provides insights into AJAN’s key initiatives, including promoting social justice through the empowerment of young girls and women at the margins, supporting social entrepreneurship, and accompanying young people through the AHAPPY Program.

Take action in fostering a society grounded in justice and dignity. Whether by championing causes, supporting education, or extending kindness, every effort contributes to equity and a more just world for all.

By, Dennis Owuoche,

AJAN Communications Officer.