I am delighted to extend warm greetings to all our esteemed partners and sponsors on behalf of the Africa-Europe Faith and Justice Network (AEFJN). It is with great enthusiasm that I introduce myself as the newly appointed Executive Secretary, entrusted with the responsibility of advancing our shared commitment to justice, peace, and collaborative global initiatives.
Professional Background: I bring to the role a diverse and rich background in law, international relations, and peace studies. I am Advocate of the High Court for Zambia and am affiliated with esteemed organizations such as the Law Association of Zambia (LAZ) and the Commonwealth Lawyers Association (CLA). My legal expertise underscores a steadfast commitment to justice and human rights, with a particular focus on the rights of women and children.
Career Highlights: Throughout my career, I have been privileged to engage in various domains, including legal practice encompassing litigation and mediation, serving as a peace practitioner, conducting field research, and contributing to foreign policy analysis. Coordinator for Justice and Peace in Tanzania, and most recently, Director of Research at the Faith & Encounter Research Centre (FENZA) in Lusaka, Zambia. I have had the opportunity to delve into critical issues shaping our world.
Justice and Peace Contributions: My dedication to advancing justice and peace is not confined to practice alone. I have actively participated in academia, delivering public lectures as a guest lecturer at different universities in Political Science and Law. This role has allowed me to mentor the next generation of professionals, emphasizing the values of justice and Catholic Social Teaching.
Global Engagement: I had the honor of serving as a guest lecturer in Migration Studies at the University of Applied Sciences Fulda, Germany, illustrating my commitment to international cooperation and cross-cultural understanding. I have also played a pivotal role in linking justice, peace office and the African Institute of International Law.
Advocacy and Social Development: My journey includes serving as a chaplain for a juvenile prison in Niamey, Niger, and as a Legal-Social Officer in Lusaka, Zambia, dedicated to human rights and social development. These experiences have shaped my perspective and strengthened my resolve to address critical issues affecting our communities.
Vision for AEFJN: As the new Executive Secretary, I aspire to leverage the existing systems and synergize them with my extensive network and skills. My primary focus is to work collaboratively towards achieving goals related to land rights, food security, corporate social responsibility, and migration.
In essence, my dedication to promoting justice, peace, and sustainability is deeply ingrained in my professional journey. I look forward to collaborating with each of you to create a more just and equitable world. Together, we can make a lasting impact and foster positive change.
Thank you for your continued support and partnership.
Elvis Ng’andwe
Executive Secretary
Africa-Europe Faith and Justice Network (AEFJN)
