The All Africa Baptist Fellowship (AABF) on Wednesday, July 8, 2026, held its Mini Assembly in an atmosphere of joy and unity to raise funds for Christ’s mission. The meeting began with a worship session led by Rev. Dr. Israel Akanji, who extended a warm welcome to delegates from across the African continent.
AABF General Secretary Elias Apetogbo presented the annual report, noting that only four national Baptist bodies—Benin, Liberia, Togo, and Ghana—have contributed financially to the fellowship this year, with total contributions amounting to $4,700.
Cameroon and Nigeria—traditionally regular contributors—reportedly delayed their payments, with the Nigeria Baptist Convention confirming that it will send its contribution soon.
Providing an update on the B-Trans project, Apetogbo reported that a total of $75,050 has been raised from shareholders.
The Assembly also celebrated its international partners. Representatives from several organizations reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Baptist churches across Africa. These partners include Fellowship Aid and International Relief (FAIR), the Baptist General Association of Virginia, International Mission, the International Mission Board, the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, Baptist Mission Society, Baptist Center for Global Concerns, and the World Mission Board of the Brazilian Baptist Convention.
Delegates also watched a video presentation highlighting ministry updates from across the continent. Apetogbo announced AABF Day 2026, a special worship service to be observed on Sunday, July 12, 2026, in local churches. Offerings collected during the service will help support the sending of missionaries to unreached communities around the world.
The General Secretary reminded members that some national Baptist bodies have lost their voting rights because of their failure to meet their financial commitments to the AABF. He reiterated that member bodies should find sustainable ways to support the fellowship financially so that it can continue carrying out its mission effectively.
He also encouraged all participants to register for the next AABF General Gathering, which will be held in Nairobi, from September 30 to October 10, 2026.
The meeting concluded on a joyful note as delegates gathered for a group photograph. Nigeria had the largest delegation, followed by Ghana and Kenya.
“This assembly shows that African Baptists are united for mission,” one participant said.
The Mini Assembly comes at a critical time as the 2026 Baptist World Alliance Annual Gathering is taking place from July 6 to 10 at Tyndale University in Toronto, under the theme, “The Table of Christ: One Gospel, Many People.”
The international gathering has brought together pastors, ministry leaders, theologians, students, and Baptist representatives from more than 60 countries.
Throughout the week, participants are expected to engage in worship, prayer, biblical teaching, theological reflection, fellowship, and strategic dialogue aimed at strengthening the global Baptist witness and advancing the mission of Christ.
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