In this April 2026 edition of AJANews, we look back on a month that has gently re-centred us on what truly matters: life, human dignity, and the quiet yet enduring power of hope. The celebration of Easter, preceded by Holy Week, together with the final vows of our AJAN Director, Fr. Ismael Matambura, SJ, has reminded us that even in moments of struggle and uncertainty, renewal remains possible. It has been a season inviting deeper reflection—not only on personal renewal, but also on how we stand with one another, particularly those whose voices are often overlooked.

Special attention has been given to young people, whose aspirations, questions, and vitality continue to shape the present and the future. April has reaffirmed that their well-being is not secondary but fundamental. When young people are nurtured emotionally, spiritually, and physically, they are better equipped to become confident individuals who contribute to more just and compassionate communities.

April also draws our attention to the gift and responsibility of health. Observances such as World Health Day and World Malaria Day have highlighted ongoing realities affecting many young people, including gaps in access to healthcare, exposure to preventable illnesses, and the need for accurate information and supportive systems. We are reminded that access to care, prevention, and support are not privileges for a few but are essential to the dignity of every person. Behind every statistic are real lives—families, dreams, and futures that deserve to flourish.

At AJAN, these moments are not merely dates on a calendar; they echo in the daily realities of the communities we accompany. They challenge us to continue responding with compassion, to listen more deeply, and to act more justly. In this spirit of renewal, you will read about our ongoing journey with youth for integral formation through the AHAPPY Training of Trainers (ToT) in Nigeria, namely at St. Joseph Mukasa Catholic Church, Gidan Mangoro, Abuja; St. Joseph Catholic Church, Benin City; and St. Francis Catholic Parish, Idimu, Nigeria.

More than 280 students from higher and tertiary institutions across Zimbabwe gathered for the National Movement of Catholic Students (NMCS) Easter Conference, in April 2026 under the theme “A Journey of Discernment with Living Hope.” Other highlights included Centre Arrupe Madagascar (CA-MDG) intensifying efforts to combat gender-based violence through new training and community programmes; SYM receiving a new vehicle to enhance mobile clinic operations and services in Burundi; and Radio Kwizera in Tanzania, in partnership with the African Jesuit AIDS Network (AJAN), continuing throughout March and April 2026 to facilitate dynamic, youth-centred discussions on key social and developmental challenges.

We remain committed to walking with the vulnerable, nurturing resilience, and keeping hope alive where it is needed most. This month has been a gentle call to remain present, compassionate, and steadfast in our mission. AJAN continues to walk with communities across Africa—particularly accompanying young people — and nurturing spaces where dignity, hope, and healing can take root and flourish.

Por, Mr. Dennis Owuoche,

Responsável de Comunicações, AJAN