Africa Food
Harvesting crops from the Bishop John Yambasu Agriculture Initiative. The economic disparity that causes food insecurity ranks among the social issues that the new United Methodist bishops in Africa should address, writes the Rev. Lloyd Nyarota. (Photo: Phileas Jusu)
Special to United Methodist Insight | July 24, 2025
Christianity has demonstrated resilience throughout history, often rebounding from periods of decline. This tradition owes its endurance to a faith rooted in hope and renewal. Within the contemporary context, progressive Christianity emphasizes liberal theology, anti-racism, ecological stewardship, and prioritization of diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Despite these priorities, insufficient attention has been paid to the systemic origins of economic inequality. Presently in Africa, challenges such as deepening economic disparity, democratic erosion, rising authoritarianism, and an escalating environmental crisis persist. The voice of the Christian left, advocating for justice and reform, risks being overshadowed by more divisive rhetoric. Meanwhile, conservative groups may remain tethered to neo-colonial and imperialist frameworks.
It is pertinent to reflect on the legacy of social gospel pioneers such as Bishops Ralph Edward Dodge, Abel Tendekai Muzorewa, Escrivao Anglaze Zunguze, Emilio JM De Carvalho, John Wesley Shungu, and Stephen Trowen Nagbe. Their commitment to social transformation continues to serve as a source of inspiration amidst current challenges. The question remains whether this heritage can still provide a blueprint for progress or if its relevance has waned.
The ongoing rise in living costs and increasing poverty highlight systemic issues within the African economies. In this environment, every aspect of society—scripture, community, ecclesiastical structures, and governance—are subject to critical examination.
Africa United Methodist Church urgently requires leaders who address specific regional challenges with directness and integrity. There should be no tolerance for hypocrisy in matters of social justice, nor for approaches that are sectarian or self-serving. Instead, leadership must be inclusive and committed to fostering a new social order across the continent. This vision entails applying the teachings of Jesus proactively to address modern injustices and opposing the notion that fulfillment is only achieved in the afterlife. The goal is to cultivate communities in which faith inspires tangible change and equitable outcomes. Leaders are therefore encouraged to advocate for pragmatic, compassionate, and equitable policies within the wider denomination and national governments.
The African United Methodist Church leadership has a responsibility to ignite a movement rooted in the social gospel and practical Christianity. Within the denomination our African leaders’ essential role should include advocating for fairness and human dignity across the connection. The church in Africa expects them to stand as a prophetic witness to justice, equality, and social responsibility, aligning with Rev. Dietrich Bonhoeffer's assertion that "the church is the church only when it exists for others."
I would like to appeal to our leaders to reject pursuits motivated by collective self-interest or aspirations for dominance, actions which undermine Christian ethics, moral values, and legitimate leadership. The aspiration should be to embody faith, justice, and equality and foster a compassionate and caring society reflective of Christ's example.
There is also a need to reconsider and contextualize understandings of God, Christ, and Christianity, ensuring their relevance within contemporary African realities. Relationships with international counterparts, particularly from the USA, should move beyond any sense of superiority or prescriptive attitudes, avoiding imperialist or colonial approaches to connectionalism.
Africa must not be viewed as a monolithic entity; rather, it encompasses a rich spectrum of identities, expressions of faith, and theological perspectives. Our African leaders should draw on this diversity to enrich African theology and ecclesiology.
Responsibility now lies with our current African leaders to guide the United Methodist Church in Africa towards a future that is both prophetic and pastoral, advancing social justice and building upon the foundation established by earlier generations of our founding African bishops. The struggle against external neo-colonial pressures remains ongoing, requiring vigilance and discernment in responding to both traditionalist and progressive influences from abroad.
To realize such a transformative vision, authentic dialogue within the church and broader society must be prioritized. This dialogue should embrace critical self-reflection, mutual learning, and a willingness to challenge inherited assumptions that no longer serve the collective good. By rooting our communal life in humility and courage, the African United Methodist Church can foster unity amid difference and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity.
As we chart a path forward, let us reaffirm our shared mission—not as a static inheritance, but as a living tradition, continuously renewed through acts of service, advocacy, and solidarity. Let us encourage honest engagement with pressing realities, uplift the marginalized, and commit ourselves to justice in both word and deed. Only by embodying these convictions can the church genuinely contribute to the flourishing of all people, honoring the legacy of those who have gone before while forging new possibilities for generations yet to come.
In conclusion, African United Methodist Church leaders are urged to champion social justice and equality through inclusive leadership and by rejecting all forms of colonial and imperial domination. Through embracing diversity and steadfast commitment to justice, the Church can contribute to constructing a connectional more equitable future. May blessings be upon all United Methodists throughout Africa. I extend my best wishes to our newly elected African bishops. You now bear the hopes of our great continent upon your shoulders.
We have been, we are, and we remain United Methodists.
Nyarota 2
The Rev. Lloyd T. Nyarota
The Rev. Lloyd T. Nyarota, is an ordained elder in the Zimbabwe East Annual Conference of The United Methodist Church. He serves in an ecumenical appointment with the United Church of Canada. He stresses that this essay is his personal opinion and not an official statement of United Methodist Africa Forum with which he is affiliated.