Kenya will host the 21st Plenary Assembly of the Association of Member Episcopal Conferences in Eastern Africa, commonly known as AMECEA, from 19 to 26 July 2026. The important regional gathering will take place in Nairobi and will bring together Catholic bishops, clergy, religious men and women, young people and other Church representatives from across Eastern Africa.
The AMECEA Plenary Assembly is an important moment in the life of the Catholic Church in the region. Held in ordinary session every four years, the assembly allows Church leaders to pray together, review their shared mission and discuss pastoral and social issues affecting their countries. Decisions made during the gathering help guide the work of AMECEA in the years that follow.
The 2026 assembly will be guided by the theme, “AMECEA’s Synodal Journey with Young People: Building Bridges of Communion, Hope, Justice, and Good Governance.” The theme reflects the Church’s desire to walk more closely with young people, listen to their experiences and give them a meaningful place in the life and mission of the Church.
The focus on young people comes at a time when many youths in Eastern Africa are facing challenges such as unemployment, social exclusion, migration and political uncertainty. At the same time, young people possess talents, ideas and energy that can contribute greatly to the Church and society. The plenary will therefore encourage honest dialogue about how the Church can support them, strengthen their faith and prepare them for responsible leadership.
As the host country, Kenya has an opportunity to welcome the AMECEA family and demonstrate the spirit of faith, hospitality and unity. The 21st Plenary Assembly is expected to be more than a meeting of Church leaders; it will be a moment of prayer, reflection and renewal. It offers the Church in Eastern Africa an opportunity to build stronger relationships and work together for greater communion, justice, hope and good governance.
