Leaders united for faith, freedom and justice
The Southern African Leaders Coalition for Faith, Freedom and Justice (SALC-FFJ) is a newly established initiative that brings together respected leaders from faith communities, legal, human rights, academic, and civil society sectors across Southern Africa. The Coalition was established to provide a unified, principled African voice in defense of human dignity, religious freedom, the rule of law, and access to justice. It seeks to promote respect for fundamental rights both within Southern Africa and, where appropriate, in response to international human rights concerns that warrant principled engagement.
Our Mission
To promote and protect the rights to faith, freedom, and justice through ethical advocacy, constructive dialogue, public engagement, and collaborative action. The Coalition seeks to strengthen Southern Africa's contribution to the advancement of universal human rights principles, due process, and freedom of religion or belief.
Our Vision
A Southern Africa that actively champions religious freedom, fair trial rights, the rule of law, and protection from arbitrary detention, while contributing a strong, independent African voice in support of justice and universal human rights.
Core Principles
The Coalition is founded upon these principles, which guide our advocacy and collaborative action.
Freedom of Religion or Belief
Respect for every person's right to practise, profess, change, and manifest their faith or beliefs without fear of discrimination, persecution, or coercion.
Fair Trial Rights
Respect for the right to a fair trial, including the presumption of innocence, access to legal representation, judicial independence, and impartial judicial proceedings.
Protection from Arbitrary Detention
Protection from arbitrary arrest or detention, consistent with domestic constitutional protections, regional human rights instruments, and international law.
Commitment to Justice and Rule of Law
Commitment to justice, human dignity, equality, and the rule of law as reflected in the Constitution of South Africa, the African Charter on Human and Peoples' Rights, the UDHR, and the ICCPR.
Universal Human Rights
Recognition that human rights are universal and that Southern African leaders have an important role to play in speaking out against serious violations wherever they occur.
Principled Advocacy
Promotion of ethical, transparent, evidence-based, and non-partisan advocacy that upholds the highest standards of integrity, accountability, and respect.
Co-Founding Members
The Coalition is established by respected leaders across SADC who share its vision and core principles.
Magdalene Govender
Established Africa, Managing Editor
Cllr Roy Van Rooyen
Stellenbosch Municipality, Idas Valley Ward 5
Rev. Barnabas George Manongwa
National Apostolic Faith Mission Name of Holy Ghost
Apostle Sfiso Nkosinathi Dlamini
Founder of International Jesus Ministries
Apostle Ernest Kaurumbua Hewicke
God of Great Commission Ministry
Pastor Mjabuliswa Cele
Founder of Edwaleni Full Gospel
Pastor Nero Candy Simbine
Assembleia de Deus International
Pastor Gabriel Amos Chissano
Igreja Esperança, Ministério Evangélico Voz da Verdade
Read our statements and stand with us
Explore the coalition's official documents and joint statements, or reach out to learn how you can support the work.