Fostering Unity Across Linguistic and Cultural Lines

Last month, a portion of The Tide® staff had the incredible opportunity to join Christian media leaders from across Africa at the annual AbR Media Continental Convention in Rwanda. The event brought together 170 participants from 35 countries, creating a vibrant space for learning, worship, and collaboration, which provided a rich opportunity for attendees to learn, worship, and grow together.

Our delegation included team members from our U.S. headquarters, along with five of our partner ministry leaders from Cameroon, Mozambique, and Zimbabwe. For our Cameroon team member, this was his first time participating, and it was especially meaningful for him to meet and connect with counterparts from Mozambique and Zimbabwe. 

AbR Media is a dynamic network of local, regional, and international media associates, all working together to share the Gospel across Africa. Its mission focuses on cultural relevance and innovation, something we know is vital in a continent where nearly 60% of the population is under 25.

During the convention, we joined teaching sessions, panel discussions, ministry showcases, and networking opportunities, all conducted in both English and French. It was amazing to experience such unity across linguistic and cultural lines while discerning how we can faithfully respond to God’s call in our ministries.

Some of the topics we explored included:

• Ministry in the Face of Persecution
• Leading in Times of Hyper-Change
• Leveraging AI for Increased Impact
• Combating the Proliferation of Pornography Across Africa
• Spectators or Participants?
• Strategies to Address Local Issues and Challenges

The schedule was very full, but the team still had time to meet separately and hear firsthand updates from each of the three countries we represent.

The convention left a lasting impression on everyone who attended. Participants from the conference shared their reflections after the event. Here are some of their thoughts:

“As the host of the AbR Continental Convention 2025, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to everyone who attended and contributed to the success of this historic gathering. Representatives from 35 countries came together with one voice and one mission: to strengthen Christian media and broadcasting across Africa. My sincere gratitude goes to all who helped in the planning, coordination, and execution of the event. Your dedication, teamwork, and faith made this convention a true success story.” – Dusabimana Apollos, Rwanda

 “It was really a blessing spending this period of sharing and learning together. I had a great time. God bless you all in your different ministries.” – Isabelle

 “Amen, and remember, AbR Media is nothing without those who participate. Please pray for us as we investigate future locations for AbR Media conferences — there are many things to consider. For example, we try to focus on countries that do not already have regular Christian media conferences or networking opportunities.” – AbR Media Admin

The 2025 AbR Media Continental Convention was more than a meeting . . . it was a celebration of unity, collaboration, and the transformative power of the Gospel across the African continent and, for us, sending our partners to gatherings like this is an important part of leadership development. These experiences equip, encourage, and connect our international partners with the wider body of Christ. We pray that by attending the conference, our partners remain encouraged, equipped, and connected. Together, we celebrate what God is doing across Africa and continue to share His Word with those who are still waiting to hear.

Every gathering like this reminds us of why we do what we do . . . we help more people hear the Gospel in their own heart language, and that is why we are so grateful to those who donated to help send our delegates. Your generosity will make an eternal impact through our African ‘boots on the ground’ team!