On Sunday 4 January 2026, in the Hall P. Matungulu, the Centre Arrupe pour la Recherche et la Formation (CARF) vibrated to the rhythm of a double celebration: that of African critical thought through the opening of two major works, and that of the denomination of room. In an atmosphere at once gathered and warmly animated by the Maestro François Amisi, the institution demonstrated, at the beginning of the year, its role as a hub for strategic and theological reflection on the continent.
The event, moderated with mastery by Abbé Jean-Baptiste Lenge, began with an opening prayer by Abbé Emmanuel Lwamba, invoking the light of the Spirit on the work of the spirit that was to be presented. Father Toussaint Kafarhire Murhula, S.J., Director General, then delivered a warm welcome, stressing CARF's pride in hosting such works that embody the centre's mission: to produce and disseminate committed and transformative knowledge.
Two books, the same quest for meaning for Africa
The heart of the first part of the evening beat the pace of two books. The Abbé Emmanuel Lwamba has carefully introduced the work of Abbé Jean-Luc Mulyanga, « Thinking God in Africa: Kāmanian Theology of Reconstruction ». He set out his ambition: to found a theological reflection that, from the Kāmanian philosophical ground, actively participates in the intellectual and spiritual reconstruction of the continent.
In a second phase, Father Martin Bahati, S.J., Director of Programmes, presented with passion « African Studies » by Father Christian Mukadi Ilunga, S.J. He highlighted the author's approach, which revisits with joyous rigour and unwavering commitment the foundations of African studies, offering a reading that is both critical and deeply in love with the realities of the continent.
The solemn moment of the baptism of books came to crown these presentations. Professor Christian Kunda acted for Abbé Mulyanga's work, while Father Ferdinand Muhigirwa, S.J. himself, baptized him.« Aromania » of Father Mukadi. This symbolic gesture, marking the official entrance of the works into the world of knowledge and public debate, was followed by a rich time of exchange between the public and the authors, moderated with finesse by Father Toussaint Kafarhire.
A moving tribute to a pioneer
The second part of the ceremony took on a more intimate and historic dimension with the ceremony of denomination of the hall « Father Ferdinand Muhigirwa, S.J. ». Taking the floor, the Director General outlined with emotion and gratitude Father Ferdinand's journey and pioneering work as the first Director of CARF. He praised his vision, his dedication and the solid foundations he laid, making him a key figure in the institution's history.
Clearly moved by this tribute, Father Ferdinand Muhigirwa took the floor. He expressed his deep gratitude to CARF for this gesture, which, far from being a mere consecration of the past, encourages him to persevere in his mission. « This act, he said, still pushes me to work, wherever I go, for the ideals that led to the creation of this centre. » His words, simple and strong, gave rise to a long ovation of the assembly.
The evening ended in the conviviality of a cocktail, punctuated by the sales and dedication sessions of the books, where authors and guests were able to extend the discussions. Exchanges continued well beyond the official closing time.
By thus combining the tribute to the nascent thought and the founding memory, CARF has offered a magnificent illustration of its own dynamic: rooted in a rich history and solid values, it looks resolutely forward, cultivating hope through the work of intelligence and the service of the community.
Elie E. BOKELE
Executive Assistant
