The International Criminal Court has opened its first-ever in absentia hearing against fugitive Ugandan rebel leader Joseph Kony, accused of 39 counts of war crimes and crimes against humanity. As head of the Lord’s Resistance Army, he terrorised northern Uganda for decades before his forces expanded attacks into Congo, the Central African Republic, and South Sudan. The LRA became infamous for abducting children, mutilating civilians, and enslaving women. Survivors and advocates in Uganda have welcomed the proceedings, even though Kony remains at large. Some stress the trial’s importance for victims who lost lives, limbs, and livelihoods; others, though frustrated at the delay, acknowledge the symbolic value for healing and justice. The court-appointed counsel for Kony, however, argued that his fair trial rights are being violated. Though justice remains incomplete without his capture, the hearing underscores the ICC’s willingness to pursue accountability in complex cases.

There are not enough theology teachers or leaders for village congregations or the urban educated. There needs to be serious consideration of what kind of training is most appropriate for Africans, including teaching and communication methods, curriculum and content, and length of courses and modules. Too much foreign structure and content has been imposed. Africans must develop training that works for Africans and deals with the Afrocentric issues facing the Church. Out of 150 theological colleges and programmes, only two are at postgraduate level. Discernment is needed to know those anointed by the Spirit for future leadership and those applying for prestige, potential employment, desire for education, etc. Church poverty and lack of understanding among potential donors hamper developing Bible training institutions. Financial needs are endless. Generosity from African and global churches is required for such vital ministry to continue. Pray for abundant modular training and training-in-service for both lay leaders and pastors.