AMECEA: “When One Member Suffers, We All Suffer,” AMECEA’s Solidarity Message to Tanzania Bishops
Sr. Jecinter Antoinette Okoth, FSSA
Catholic Bishops under their umbrella body, The Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa (AMECEA), have issued a solidarity message to the Tanzania Episcopal Conference (TEC), following deadly violence and protests that erupted after the nation’s General Elections, that was held on October 29.
In a message signed by the AMECEA Chairman, Bishop Charles Sampa Kasonde of Solwezi Diocese, Zambia, the Eastern Africa Bishops underscored the profound interconnectedness of the African faithful, saying, “When one member suffers, we all suffer together.” This phrase highlights the regional church’s commitment to walking with Tanzania during what it calls an “extraordinarily difficult and painful moment.”
The statement dated Wednesday, November 12, detailed the deep grief felt by the AMECEA bishops over the post-election violent protests that resulted in the loss of precious lives, numerous injuries, and widespread suffering.
“The recent tragic events following the General Elections on October 29, 2025, have deeply grieved us all,” the message stated as the Bishops commended the souls of the dead to the Almighty and offered prayers for all who are recovering from physical and emotional injuries, including those who are still missing or traumatized.
Acknowledging Tanzania’s long-held reputation as a regional beacon of stability and peaceful coexistence, the Bishops noted that the current crisis in Tanzania threatens the “noble legacy and the very fabric of national unity.”
Addressing the Tanzanian Catholic leadership, the AMECEA chairman assured them of unwavering solidarity and called upon TEC members to continue their vital role in the country.
“Continue to be prophetic voices for truth, justice, and reconciliation in your country. Continue to be ministers of comfort to the suffering, advocates for the voiceless,” Bishop Kasonde highlighted in the statement and added, “Continue to be beacons of hope in the darkness.”
The Bishops further prayed that God would strengthen the people of God and that the Holy Spirit would guide all Tanzanians toward the paths of peace, justice, and reconciliation.
