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The Anglican Student Federation ( ASF) Western Cape Region Annual Conference was held from 15-17 May 2026 at St Francis Anglican Church in Khayelitsha, Cape Town, under the Theme “ Repositioning with Integrity”, based on Psalm 25:21. The conference brought together students, clergy and visitors for a spirit-filled weekend of fellowship, learning, worship, leadership and revival.The second day began with a morning prayer session, setting a reflective tone for the day. This was followed by an engaging session facilitated by Bino Makhalanyane from the Green Anglicans Movement. The session was highly interactive, incorporating music, drama, and participatory awareness activities.Students explored how communities in the Western Cape are affected by climate-related disasters, including floods, droughts, and wildfires. Through dramatisation, they illustrated how these disasters develop, the role of human activities in intensifying them, and their impact on livelihoods. They also reflected on the messages they can share within their communities to promote resilience and preparedness.The session was both educational and enjoyable, encouraging active participation and critical thinking. Students proposed practical actions that communities can begin implementing, including planting trees to create cooler urban environments, preventing litter that blocks drainage systems, educating communities on fire safety during dry, windy seasons, displaying emergency contact numbers for disasters on church notice boards, and avoiding construction in wetlands.The programme continued with a session by United in Crisis and Hope Africa, followed by the AGM’s conclusion, during which new REC members were elected. Revd. Canon Maci later unpacked the conference theme, and the evening included an Exam Prayer Service led by Revd. Canon Adrian Gordon, fraternal greetings to visiting organisations, and a vibrant time of praise, worship, and revival.The final day began with an Eucharist Service led by Revd. Lubabalo Qosi, during which the new REC members were commissioned and prayed for. The conference closed with joy and gratitude, ending in a short photo session that captured the unity and spirit of the gathering. By :Emihle Sobekwa

The North West Region gathered at St Augustine of Hippo, Potchefstroom, from 15–17 May 2026 for its Annual Regional Conference. The two-night conference was filled with spirit revival, powerful praise and worship, fellowship, laughter, and memories that the members of the region will cherish for years to come. With all the excitement, the members of the North West Region remained intentional about caring for creation. In the spirit of Green Anglican, no Styrofoam was used throughout the conference, and reusable water bottles were used instead. Through these simple actions, the region showed that environmental stewardship can be practiced even while enjoying a weekend of worship, learning, and fun. A big thanks to Mother Nature for such a wonderful weekend. The conference programme also included a Green Hike sponsored by Green Anglican. The 3.3km trail took members through beautiful green surroundings, with small streams flowing along the way. The hike offered a refreshing break from the conference programme and a chance to reconnect with nature in a meaningful way. As members walked the trail, they were able to appreciate the beauty of the environment while enjoying fellowship with one another. It was a simple but powerful reminder that caring for creation begins with learning to appreciate it. The experience perfectly complemented the conference’s commitment to environmental stewardship and sustainable living. The conference also had a special moment where we planted a tree at St Augustine of Hippo, because every tree planted carries hope for life and a greener future. Archdeacon Sebowane was with us, guiding and blessing the tree. We prayed over it, hoping it would grow strong and stand as a living reminder of our commitment as the North West Region to caring for the environment. It was more than just a programme item; it was a meaningful reminder that caring for creation is part of our faith and responsibility. ARTICLE COMPILED BY T. MARAKA – (OUTGOING REGIONAL GET)  

On 11 May 2026, the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) hosted a significant environmental engagement focused on the national One Billion Trees Programme. The event brought together government leaders, environmental organisations, faith-based representatives, and climate activists committed to strengthening South Africa’s environmental future. Among the invited attendees were Boipelo Mojapelo, Tumisho Mohlahlane, Rev Johanna Mphaga, Canon Molly of Green Anglican, alongside representatives from Climate YES Organisation. The keynote address was delivered by Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts, who officially launched the ambitious One Billion Trees target. In her address, she highlighted the importance of collective action and private sector support in achieving the country’s environmental goals. “This year alone we aim to plant 10 million trees on Heritage Day at no cost to government, and I wish to thank all our donors for the generosity and commitment of putting the country and the environment first and I note that some of them are here with us in this session,” said Deputy Minister Bernice Swarts while delivering the keynote address. The MEC of Gauteng, Botha, also delivered a powerful message of support, emphasising the cultural and historical significance of trees across Africa. “In South Africa and in Africa, trees are not just there to combat climate change. Trees are not just there to prevent water from running off and soil erosion. Trees are not just there to provide oxygen. Trees are our heritage,” said MEC Botha. As part of the programme’s commitment to community-driven environmental action, the DFFE donated 100 trees to Green Anglican and Climate YES Organisation. The donation symbolises a shared commitment to sustainability, environmental education, climate resilience, and community participation in restoring South Africa’s natural environment. The event served as a reminder that environmental stewardship requires partnerships between government, civil society, faith-based organisations, and local communities. Through initiatives such as the One Billion Trees Programme, South Africa continues to take meaningful steps toward combating climate change while preserving its environmental heritage for future generations. By: Boipelo Mojapelo

“At least there is hope for a tree: if it is cut down, it will sprout again, and its new shoots will not fail. Its roots may grow old in the ground and its stump die in the soil, yet at the scent of water it will bud and put forth shoots like a plant.” — Job 14:7–9 The Green Anglicans movement is embracing Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration (FMNR), a simple yet transformative approach to ecological restoration. At a recent gathering of Anglican partners hosted by Anglican Overseas Aid, James Senjura from the Anglican Church of Kenya introduced partners to this life-giving technique. The partners came from South Sudan, South Africa, Kenya, Uganda, Mozambique and Ethiopia. Instead of planting new trees, FMNR encourages farmers to protect and manage the natural regrowth of trees and shrubs from existing root systems, seeds, and living stumps already present in the soil. This simple but powerful method has restored millions of hectares of degraded land, especially across Africa. FMNR works by selecting healthy shoots that emerge naturally from old stumps or roots and carefully pruning them to encourage strong growth. Farmers then protect these trees from fire, overgrazing, and unnecessary cutting. As the trees mature, they improve soil fertility, reduce erosion, increase water retention, and provide shade for crops and livestock. Trees also provide fuelwood, fodder, fruits, and building materials, creating additional sources of income for families. One of the greatest strengths of FMNR is that it empowers local communities. Farmers use their own knowledge and resources, making the approach affordable, sustainable, and deeply rooted in local practice. In regions affected by drought and climate change, FMNR has strengthened food security and resilience by restoring ecosystems and improving agricultural productivity. FMNR also contributes to addressing the global climate crisis. Restored trees capture carbon dioxide, support biodiversity, and revive damaged landscapes. By working with nature rather than against it, FMNR demonstrates how simple environmental practices can bring social, economic, and ecological healing. Churches across northern Kenya and Zambia are already using the technique and seeing harvests increase. The Anglican Church of Zimbabwe is going to be working with Foundations for Farming to promote the technique In Southern Africa, the Green Anglicans will partner with World Vision Southern Africa to roll out training in this simple but significant practice. The idea was initially brought to World Vision by Tony Rinauldo, who saw it successfully used in extremely dry regions of West Africa where tree growing once seemed impossible. He later shared this story in his book The Forest Underground, a message of hope for a planet in crisis. Across Africa, lands have been denuded and forests cut down, yet the forest still lives underground. May the stumps live again for the healing of the nations.

The Mothers’ Union in the Anglican Church of Southern Africa is proving that faith communities can play a powerful role in responding to the climate crisis. In 2024, the MU in ACSA launched a groundbreaking initiative by passing a resolution that every Diocese should appoint an Eco Champ — women and leaders committed to inspiring environmental action, resilience, and care for creation in their local communities. This vision came alive as Eco Champs from South Africa, Eswatini, Namibia, Lesotho, and Botswana gathered in Cape Town for an inspiring and deeply meaningful conference focused on climate justice, adaptation, and community transformation. The conference opened with a powerful Eucharist service led by Rev Maria Van Staaden, grounding the gathering in prayer, worship, and a shared commitment to God’s creation. The sessions throughout the conference reflected both the urgency of the climate crisis and the hope found in collective action. Topics included: A major focus of the conference was the increasing reality of climate disasters across the region. Participants heard sobering stories from communities affected by floods and extreme weather in Mthatha, Limpopo, and Mpumalanga. A presentation from Gift of the Givers highlighted both the devastating human impact of disasters and the importance of rapid, compassionate response. The gathering was honoured by the presence of Provincial President Mme Meisie together with executive member Mama Anastasia, whose encouragement inspired participants to continue leading courageously in their dioceses and communities. There was also great joy in welcoming Mama Harriet from the Province of South Sudan, reminding everyone of the strength of regional and global Anglican partnerships. We pray that the vision of MU Eco-champs may spread to other countries! But the conference was not only about learning. It was also about fellowship, laughter, and celebrating life together. Delegates enjoyed a cold but beautiful visit to the beach, shared a memorable fish supper, and ended with a vibrant cultural evening joined by partners from South Sudan, Uganda, Kenya, and Mozambique. The Mothers Union Eco Champs initiative is already changing lives — equipping women to lead climate action in churches and communities, strengthening resilience, and nurturing hope for future generations. In a time of growing environmental challenges, these Eco Champs are becoming beacons of faith, courage, and transformation across Southern Africa.   We are grateful for the support of the Anglican Overseas Aid for this wonderful conference

Representatives from projects in South Sudan, Kenya, Mozambique, Uganda, Ethiopia and South Africa gathered for a wonderful Partners’ Learning Forum – a week of peer learning, worship, inspiration and fellowship hosted by Anglican Overseas Aid. The Forum created a space where Anglicans from across Africa could share experiences, deepen relationships and strengthen our shared commitment to climate justice, disaster preparedness and care for creation. The first part of the workshop connected participants with the Anglican Church of Southern Africa Mothers’ Union Eco Champs programme, which proved to be a tremendous inspiration. Together we shared a beautiful Eucharist, celebrated our different cultures during a joyful cultural evening, and reflected on how faith communities can respond creatively and courageously to the climate crisis. Throughout the week we explored the beauty of God’s creation together — from the beach to the magnificent Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. We enjoyed wonderful fish from the ocean. These moments reminded us why protecting our common home is both a spiritual calling and an urgent responsibility. The programme included a rich range of learning opportunities. Shelter Mushipe shared important insights on gender and climate justice, while Micah DeKorne led an engaging session on photographic skills and storytelling. Rev. Rachel facilitated sessions on ecotheology and biblically grounded environmental campaigns, helping participants connect scripture, discipleship and environmental action. One of the most meaningful aspects of the gathering was hearing participants share their “most significant changes” — stories of transformation, resilience and hope from communities across the continent. We also learned about the history of the Green Anglicans movement, the Communion Forest initiative, and the global Season of Creation. James Senjura from the Anglican Church of Kenya introduced us to Farmer Managed Natural Regeneration “Living Stumps” , while Wise Life Choices facilitated important discussions on population and the environment. Bino Makhalanyane shared the Sunday School resource Ryan the Rhino, equipping churches to nurture environmental awareness among children. Our field day brought learning into action. Participants visited the Philippi Horticultural Area where we learned about protecting farmland from development and planted trees together. We also engaged with climate advocacy efforts led by the African Climate Alliance, hearing from Solly Nyezi about campaigns against new fossil fuel projects. At the coast, Liz McDaid from The Green Connection shared work to protect the oceans from oil and gas exploration. Above all, the week was filled with worship, laughter, singing, learning and friendship. Together we recommitted ourselves to care for God’s creation as one family, united in faith and hope for a more just and sustainable future. A heartfelt thank you to Anglican Overseas Aid and the people of Australia for making this wonderful gathering possible.   Photo credit : Elspeth Kernebone