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African leaders show support for Israel at summit

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STEVEN GRUZD

The summit – which focused on worship, prayer, and learning the truth about Israel and Middle East politics – attracted 120 delegates from countries including Kenya, Nigeria and South Africa, as well as approximately 15 local Israeli participants. It also incorporated visits to Christian sites all around Israel, including Bethlehem, the Galilee and Cesarea.

Held at the prestigious Jerusalem Crowne Plaza Hotel, the event was organised by Pastor Segun Olanipekun and his Institute for Christian Leadership Development, with support from the South African Friends of Israel (SAFI), an organisation dedicated to inter-faith outreach in support of Israel, especially among Christians in South Africa and Africa. Delegates funded their own participation.

Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat opened the summit. He emphasised that under Israeli sovereignty, Jerusalem is a holy city open to all faiths for worship. Delegates also met former member of Knesset Rabbi Dov Lipman of the Yesh Atid party, among other politicians and dignitaries.

“We are building positive relationships between Israel and African Christians. They are strong supporters of Israel through their faith,” said Ben Swartz, chairman of the South African Zionist Federation and co-chairman of SAFI. “There is a massive groundswell of support for Israel in Africa”.

On August 27, participants visited the Israel Export Institute in Tel Aviv, to explore closer business ties between Africa and Israel. Swartz said, “These trips have a multiplier effect among the grassroots. It might generate one or a dozen trade opportunities with Israel.”

Olanipekun said: “Africans will now be able to tap into the amazing technology and development that Israel offers. They all left Israel tremendously inspired. And it’s time for the Jewish and Christian communities to put 2 000 years of hostility behind us and work together.”

The conference resolved to establish an Africa-Israel Chamber of Commerce. Swartz will sit on a working committee to bring it to fruition, collaborating with Israeli counterparts who have successfully developed the South African-Israel Chamber of Commerce.

Swartz also highlighted the importance of taking Christians to Israel to see the truth of the situation with their own eyes. “It’s the best way to fight the lies and propaganda about Israel. It’s about being pro-active and developing strategic relationships.”

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