The Inter-Religious Council of Uganda (IRCU), in partnership with Faith Communities and Institutions of African Interfaith Initiatives on Sustainable Development Goals, the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), the United Nations, the African Development Bank (AfDB), and the Government of Uganda, will host a one-day Regional Faith Communities and Institutions Forum on April 8, 2025, at the Speke Resort Convention Centre, Munyonyo. The event, a prelude to the 11th Africa Regional Forum on Sustainable Development Goals (ARFSD11), will bring together at least 100 regional participants.

The ARFSD11 is an annual inter-governmental regional forum co-hosted by the ECA and various African governments, in collaboration with AfDB and UN organizations. It serves as a platform to review progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and Agenda 2063, ensuring a people-centered approach to sustainable development.

Key Objectives of the Faith Communities Forum

The forum will focus on strengthening the role of faith-based organizations in advancing the SDGs by:
✅ Reviewing faith communities’ past commitments made in 2014 and aligning them with current SDG priorities.
✅ Building consensus on strategies, policies, and actions to accelerate SDG implementation.
✅ Evaluating challenges, experiences, and opportunities for faith communities in achieving SDG targets.
✅ Promoting scientific, evidence-based solutions for faith communities to complement government efforts on SDG implementation.

Focus SDGs

The discussions will center on key SDGs, including:
📌 SDG 3 – Good Health and Well-Being
📌 SDG 5 – Gender Equality
📌 SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
📌 SDG 16 – Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions
📌 SDG 17 – Partnerships for the Goals

Expected Outcomes

🔹 A renewed consensus among faith communities on sustainable, evidence-based solutions for socio-economic growth.
🔹 A comprehensive review report to be presented at the 2025 High-Level Political Forum.
🔹 Increased awareness and engagement of faith leaders on SDG priorities and development agendas.
🔹 Strengthened commitments by religious communities to drive socio-economic progress and fast-track SDG implementation.

The forum underscores the critical role of faith-based institutions in fostering inclusive, ethical, and people-driven sustainable development across Africa.