The SOMI–ACLA (Solidarity and Mission – African Claretian Missionaries) Conference is taking place from 29 November to 5 December 2025 in Karen, Kenya. The meeting has brought together 25 participants from 14 countries—Angola, Argentina, Cameroon, Colombia, Equatorial Guinea, India, Kenya, Mozambique, Nigeria, São Tomé and Príncipe, Spain, Sri Lanka, Uganda, and Zimbabwe—representing seven major organisms (Cameroun, Congo, Mae de Africa, Nigeria East, Nigeria West, St. Charles Lwanga, and Xifre) as well as the missions of Mozambique, South Sudan and Zimbabwe.
The gathering includes members of the SOMI General Team, such as the General Prefect of Apostolate, the General Coordinator of JPIC, the General Mission Procurator, the representative of the Claretians at the United Nations, and various prefects of apostolate, JPIC coordinators, and mission procurators.
The conference opened with a Eucharistic celebration presided over by the SOMI General Team. During the liturgy, symbols representing different SOMI activities and the lived realities of the organisms were presented. Fr. Mathew Vattamattam, CMF, Superior General of the Claretian Congregation, shared a message filled with hope, encouraging renewed commitment to improving the quality of life across the African continent.
The two invited speakers offered thoughtful and personal reflections on the current social and ecclesial landscape in Africa, highlighting both challenges and opportunities.
The dynamic presentations by SOMI coordinators from the various organisms and missions reaffirmed the central role of SOMI in the daily life and mission of the congregation. Fr. Pedro Belderrain, CMF, General Prefect of Apostolate, encouraged participants to remain firmly rooted in Christ and to embrace boldness in mission through concrete acts of solidarity.
The General Coordinator of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC), the General Mission Procurator, and the Claretians’ representative at the United Nations further motivated the assembly to integrate SOMI values into everyday pastoral work and evangelization.
A special highlight of the week was a field visit on Wednesday, which offered a sign of hope amid growing environmental challenges. Participants witnessed a local initiative transforming reusable plastics into pavement stones, roofing tiles, etc.Gjenge Makers (gjenge.co.ke) an example of creative, community-driven environmental conservation and — the women lead Kazuri beads (kazuribeads.com).
With renewed resolve, the conference continues to foster a shared commitment to solidarity, justice, and sustainable mission across Africa and beyond.