Mozambique and South Africa Strengthen Vincentian Cooperation Ties

From May 1 to 4, 2026, the National Council of Mozambique of the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul (SSVP) welcomed the fraternal visit of fellow Vincentian Vincent Teboho Williams, President of the National Council of South Africa, as part of efforts to strengthen cooperation ties and exchange experiences between the two National Councils.

This visit is aligned with the objectives established in the Indicative Strategic and Development Plan (ISDP 2024–2028) and the Activity Plan (AP 2025–2026) of the National Council of Mozambique, especially within the pillar dedicated to the development of national and international partnerships to promote organized charity in service of the most vulnerable people.

The agenda began in Maputo Province, where the South African president was enthusiastically welcomed by the local Vincentians, especially by the Matola Conference. The visit then continued in Gaza Province, covering the districts of Chonguene, Xai-Xai, Chókwè, and Guijá.

During these days, several charitable and training activities were carried out, allowing direct encounters with families in need, as well as moments of fellowship and reflection alongside fellow Vincentians, SSVP collaborators, priests of the Congregation of the Mission, and the Daughters of Charity Sisters.

Among the main activities carried out were:

• Home visits to families affected by floods and vulnerable situations.
• Meetings with members of the National Council, Particular Councils, and local Conferences.
• Training talks on the themes “Jesus in the Poor of Mozambique” (Mt 25:40) and “The Economic Sustainability of the Conferences in Mozambique.”
• Exchange of experiences regarding the functioning and initiatives of both National Councils.
• Fraternity activities with elderly people, orphaned children, and members of the SSVP.
• Visits to land designated for future social development projects in response to challenges caused by climate change.
• Participation in liturgical celebrations and in the opening ceremony of the activities of the lay movements of the Chókwè parish.

The visit strengthened the bonds of Vincentian fraternity between Mozambique and South Africa, promoting regional collaboration and renewing the shared commitment to serve Christ in the poor.