The International Religious Freedom (IRF) Summit Africa, convened in June 2025 in Nairobi, Kenya, served as a platform to emphasize the vital role that religious freedom plays in promoting peace, economic development, and democratic governance, particularly within the African context. The event, which brought together religious leaders, policymakers, and civil society representatives from across Africa and beyond, was co-convened by the Global Peace Foundation, Pepperdine University, and the Religious Freedom Institute.

The speakers, including faith leaders and international advocates, drew attention to the growing need for African nations to embed religious freedom into national policies and social frameworks. Ambassador Sam Brownback, former U.S. Ambassador-at-Large for International Religious Freedom, pointed out that companies are more likely to invest in countries where religious freedom is respected, noting that employees and their families thrive in environments that allow them to freely practice their faith. He stressed that economic growth and social progress are closely tied to how inclusive and tolerant a society is of religious diversity.

Dr. Katrina Lantos Swett, President of the Lantos Foundation, emphasized that religious freedom is not only a development issue but a fundamental human right, warning that societies that suppress this freedom risk falling into deep divisions and identity-based conflict. This echoed Ambassador Sam Brownback’s viewpoint, which cautioned against the “clash of civilizations” that can occur when religious intolerance goes unchecked.

Religious leaders were reminded of their critical role as mediators and voices of conscience, especially during times of conflict and moral failure. Religious leaders are often uniquely positioned to foster interfaith dialogue and guide communities toward reconciliation and healing, thanks to the trust they hold within their congregations.

Read the Full Report on the IRF Summit Africa 2025 – Global Peace Foundation