The John Paul II Foundation for the Sahel: Promoting Integral Human Development in Africa
As the Board of Directors of the John Paul II Foundation for the Sahel gathers in Dakar, Senegal for its 43rd session, the focus is on discussing ongoing development projects in the troubled African region. Established in 1984 by Pope St. John Paul II, the foundation aims to provide concrete support to drought-stricken populations in the nine Sahel countries in collaboration with the local Church and communities.
The Sahel region, encompassing countries like Burkina Faso, Mali, and Senegal, faces significant challenges due to poverty, armed conflicts, political unrest, and natural disasters. The Foundation’s work includes combating desertification, aiding drought victims, and promoting sustainable development through projects in environmental protection, agriculture, water management, and renewable energy.
One key aspect of the Foundation’s mission is training specialized technical personnel to contribute effectively to their communities. It also emphasizes inter-religious dialogue to benefit people of different faiths.
Addressing Challenges with Pope Francis’ Guidance
The Dakar session, taking place from 17-21 February, seeks to explore how the foundation can further support integral human development in the Sahel amidst increasing challenges. Monsignor Roberto Campisi stressed the importance of aligning initiatives with Pope Francis’ guidelines outlined in the Apostolic Constitution Praedicate Evangelium, which reforms the Roman Curia.
By hosting the gathering, Archbishop Benjamin Ndiaye of Dakar demonstrates fraternal attention and solidarity among the bishops managing the Foundation. The Vatican Undersecretary commended Pope Francis’ unwavering support for the Foundation’s mission and highlighted the need for reflection on new regulations governing Vatican foundations.
Building a Better Africa
Sister Alessandra Smerilli, Secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, emphasized the need to address underlying injustices fueling conflicts in the Sahel. She called for collective efforts to combat poverty, promote human development, and foster peaceful coexistence.
Looking ahead, Sister Smerilli expressed hope that the Foundation’s initiatives will embody values of justice, solidarity, and compassion, working towards peace and social harmony in the Sahel. By embracing Pope Francis’ call for inner transformation and integral development, the Foundation aims to create a better Africa where fraternity is not just an ideal but a lived reality.
