Overview

The Mindolo Ecumenical Foundation (MEF) is a Pan-African centre for study, reflection, and worship located in Kitwe, in Zambia’s Copperbelt Province. It was founded in 1958 as an interdenominational Christian institution with a strong emphasis on ecumenism, bringing together Christians from different denominations to pursue shared goals.

Mission and Focus

MEF serves as a hub for:

Study, Reflection, and Worship: Hosting theological discussions, seminars, worship gatherings, and ecumenical consultations.

Peacebuilding and Conflict Resolution: Running programs such as the Dag Hammarskjöld “Messengers of Peace” training, along with three-month and nine-month peace certificates focusing on conflict analysis, mediation, human rights, democracy, and nonviolent methods.

Education and Skills Training: Offering short courses in management, financial literacy, project planning, English for special purposes, and conflict transformation. MEF also serves as a base for theological education through affiliated institutions like the United Church of Zambia Theological College, St. John’s Anglican Seminary, and Theological Education by Extension in Zambia.

Social and Community Development: Engaging in training for community development, addressing HIV/AIDS, gender-based violence, caring for orphans and vulnerable children, and supporting socio-economic development in the Copperbelt and beyond.

Advocacy and Reconciliation: Historically, MEF has provided a platform for reconciliation and dialogue during Zambia’s independence movement and beyond, fostering church engagement in politics, justice, and public life.

Structure and Partnerships

MEF is governed by a Board of Governors and led by an Executive Director, supported by committees and a participants’ council. It collaborates with local churches, ecumenical networks, and international partners to deliver its programs.

Challenges

Despite its historical significance, MEF faces ongoing challenges:

Heavy reliance on donor funding.

Financial struggles, including debts and sustainability issues.

Questions of relevance in adapting to new social and technological contexts.

Historical Significance

Since its founding, MEF has been more than just a training institution — it has been a symbol of ecumenical unity in Africa, a pioneer in linking theology with socio-economic development, and a hub for peacebuilding and leadership training across the continent.