In May 2025, Addis Ababa hosted the 2025 G20 Interfaith Forum (IF20), a significant event that brought together religious leaders, policymakers and civil society representatives from across Africa and beyond. Held from May 13 to 14, 2025, the forum focused on the theme:
“Africa’s Faith Communities: Advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the African Union Agenda 2063, and G20 South Africa’s 2025 Process.”
This gathering was a collaborative effort organised by the Inter-Religious Council of Ethiopia, the United Religions Initiative–Africa and the G20 Interfaith Forum, in partnership with the African Union’s Citizens and Diaspora Directorate (CIDO) and the Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOCC). The forum aimed to highlight the pivotal role of faith communities in driving sustainable development and peace across the continent.
🕊️ Key Highlights
- Opening Session: The forum commenced with the national anthems of Ethiopia and the African Union, followed by an opening prayer led by religious leaders from the Ethiopia Interreligious Council. A youth representative recited the Golden Rule, emphasising the universal principle of treating others as one would like to be treated. The opening remarks were delivered by H.E. Taye Atske Selassie, President of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia, who underscored the importance of interfaith dialogue in fostering peace and development.
- Plenary Sessions: The forum featured several plenary sessions addressing critical issues:
- The African Union at the G20 Summit: Discussions focused on the role of faith communities in advancing G20 objectives in Africa.
- Building a Living Peace: This session highlighted the contributions of religious actors and the African Union in promoting peace, justice, and equity.
- Sustainable Development in a World in Turmoil: Participants deliberated on Africa’s contributions and needs in the context of global challenges, emphasising the importance of balanced transitions and African leadership.
- Ethical Leadership Initiatives: Herbert Makinda, Regional Manager of the Globethics Eastern Africa Centre, presented the Ethical Leadership for an Inclusive Future in Sub-Saharan Africa (ELIF) project. This initiative aims to address corruption and promote transparency and accountability in governance across six African countries. Makinda emphasised the detrimental impact of corruption on justice, economic development, and human dignity, advocating for ethical leadership as a cornerstone for sustainable development. Globethics
- Catholic Participation: The Catholic community played an active role in the forum, with representatives contributing to discussions on peacebuilding, climate justice, and religious freedom. Their involvement underscored the commitment of faith-based organizations to addressing pressing global issues. Vatican News
🌐 Significance and Legacy
The 2025 IF20 in Addis Ababa was a landmark event that not only celebrated Ethiopia’s rich tradition of religious coexistence but also positioned African faith communities at the forefront of global dialogues on sustainable development and peace. The outcomes of the forum are expected to inform the broader G20 discussions, ensuring that African perspectives are integral to shaping global policies.
For more detailed information and updates on the forum, you can visit the G20 Interfaith Forum’s official website.
