Harmony resonates across a vibrant network of nations. Shared purpose ignites, a collective flame.
This was the essence of the recent Africa Resource Network (ARN) Retreat held in Accra, Ghana. from the 26th of February to the 2nd of March 2024 at Mandiata hotel.
The retreat wasn’t just a gathering; it was a catalyst for transformative collaboration within the African Digital Strategies Disciple-Making Movement community. It was a room buzzing with diverse voices, united by a common goal: harnessing the power of digital tools to spread the gospel message across the vast dynamic landscape of Africa.
A chorus of unity:
The retreat’s core resonated with the powerful message of “United in Purpose, Empowered by Interdependence.” Through inspiring devotions, the ARN explored the biblical principles of working together in harmony, aligning with God’s will, and embracing the strength that comes from shared leadership and care like the ants working together, with no single leader, yet exceptional efficiency. This spirit of interdependence resonated deeply, reminding everyone that every individual plays a vital role in advancing the Kingdom of God. They are known and needed.
Equipping the Continent for the Digital Harvest:
The Africa Resource Network (ARN) emerged from the retreat committed to empowering nations across Africa with the tools and resources they need to thrive in the digital mission field. We will create easy-to-understand tutorials on the use of various Campus Crusade for Christ (CCCCI) apps and resources, readily available to individuals and organizations. These tutorials won’t just be informative; they’ll enhance the effectiveness of evangelism and discipleship efforts while ensuring users are equipped to maximize the impact of these tools in their communities.
Building a Sustainable Digital Future
The retreat wasn’t just about immediate Impact; it also focused on building a sustainable future for DS Africa. Discussions revolved around financial leadership and resource sustainability by exploring Digital tools, resources and platforms for funding. Our dream is self-sustaining ministries, empowered to continue their mission without relying solely on external support. This is the vision, and the “Win-Keep-Lift-Multiply” framework serves as the roadmap, guiding DS Africa towards long-term success at various levels, from individual leaders to entire teams and nations.
The devotions were focused on interdependence, summarised as followed: the language of interdependence:Us (Gen. 11:1-9); the strength of interdependence: shared leadership (Prov. 6:6); the maintenance of interdependence: care (John 10:1-18); the motivation of interdependence: the value of souls (Matthew 6:24)
The spark is Ignited:
The ARN Retreat wasn’t just a meeting; it was a spark that ignited a fire of collaboration and purpose.
Come April 15-21, we are launching the Annual Africa Digital Outreach Week (DOW), bringing together 18 nations, for accelerated digital missions online and offline digital outreach in collaboration with partner strategies.
As we move forward, we remember the harmonious chorus of voices, the commitment to shared purpose, and the collective responsibility to equip and empower each other in this digital mission across the vast and vibrant tapestry of African nations.
Roles in ARN
- Digital Maturity and Movement building: Beach Mavanga
- Social media and GodTools: Eunice Amoah
- Partnership, Innovation and TMM: Yomi Adeyinka
- Fund Development and Missional Gap: Kafah Mekwi
- AEM and Growth Stack: Emile Manirambona
- Prayer, Jesus film: Naftal Katumbo
- Media and communication: Edith Namutebi
Kelly Londoni, the Africa Digital Strategies l coaches the above ARN members
Women In Digital (WID) on the Rise:
Africa is witnessing a phenomenal rise in women leaders within the DS community. The inspiring example of Mrs. Mimi Mavanga and her team in the DRC showcases the immense potential and impact of women in digital ministry. Following this momentum, the network is actively planning a groundbreaking conference for Women in Digital, scheduled for late June in Benin. This event promises to be a powerful catalyst for empowering and equipping some 100 women from various nations to take their rightful place as leaders in the African DS landscape.
Join the Movement!
Become a part of the transformative journey of igniting Africa through the power of the Gospel and the potential of collaborative ministry. Visit our website: www.africadsnetwork.org Connect with us on social media: Facebook: @AfricaDSNetworkCCC | IG/X/YouTube: @AfricaDSNetwork
Together, let’s make a lasting impact on the African continent, one soul at a time!