From November 16 to 22, 2025, Sisters Adorers participated in the 2nd Regional Assembly of the Talitha Kum Africa networkin Lusaka (Zambia), under the theme: “Together We Are Stronger: Building Resilience in the Fight Against Human Trafficking”.

During an intense week of reflection, prayer, and strategic collaboration, 55 participants — sisters, priests, and young ambassadors — gathered at the Kasisi Retreat Centre to share experiences and strengthen their common mission against human trafficking in Africa.

Among the participants was Sister Marie Reine Zanou, Adorer Religious Sister, who represented the Congregation in this continental space of communion and commitment.

United in the face of new challenges

The Assembly opened with a profound prayer inspired by the prophet Micah (6:8): “Walk humbly with God and act justly.”

The sound of African drums accompanied the entrance of delegates carrying their national flags in a procession full of colour, diversity, and hope.

This gesture expressed the unity of the African Church in defending human dignity and the shared desire to end human trafficking.
In her opening speech, Sister Abby Avelino, of the Maryknoll Sisters and International Coordinator of Talitha Kum, emphasized that the true strength of African networks lies in their unity and spirit of collaboration.

Although the challenges are great due to the growth of trafficking on the continent, this gathering became a sacred space for listening, discernment, and shared prayer, where the commitment to act with hope was renewed.

Strengthening collaboration and youth leadership

Sister Yvonne Bambara, of the Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd and Regional Coordinator of Talitha Kum Africa, presented the four main objectives of the Assembly:

• To promote collaboration and networking.
• To empower communities and survivors through holistic accompaniment.
• To encourage training and the sharing of best practices among members.
• To increase visibility and awareness on trafficking, helping survivors recover their dignity and hope.

The gathering also included the participation of 12 Talitha Kum youth ambassadors, whose testimony and energy brought renewed momentum to the fight for a world free of exploitation.

Recognizing commitment and renewing hope

The Assembly concluded with the third edition of the “Sisters Against Human Trafficking Awards,” held in Lusaka on November 21, where three religious sisters were recognized for their courage and dedication in accompanying trafficking victims in their communities.

For the Adorers, this participation reaffirms the Congregation’s commitment to the mission of Eucharistic Adoration and Liberation, shared in international networks such as Talitha Kum.

Through our charism, Sister Marie Reine Zanou carried the voice of the Adorer communities of Africa, uniting prayer, action, and hope with other consecrated women working for dignity, justice, and freedom.