World Evangelical Alliance Women’s Commission in Africa is carried out through PACWA, Pan African Christian Women Alliance.

PACWA is in 30 African Countries, the U.S.A. and will be launched in Europe in August this year. It has officially been registered in the Netherlands, and has touched Geneva, Switzerland, Germany and England. Hopefully these countries will become strong and Launch PACWA later.

1. Networking
2. Research/Training
3. Women in Development
4. Women in Ministry.

1. Programme 1 — Networking
   We have kept the old networks, mainline church women groups and Women of Global Action (WOGA).
   
   Due to wars, and other challenges, some of the PACWA Branches had weakened. Such was Burundi, which was re-launched. During the war, PACWA leaders dispersed into safe countries of refuge. We were happy to get Sister Peace Nihorimbere after 11 years away in Canada. Swaziland was also re-launched in a colourful ceremony, with the Queen as Chief Guest.
   
   We have done a DVD/Video to share the work of PACWA.


2. Research/Training
   Concentration was in the area of HIV/AIDS.
   
   Every August, we conduct a holiday training club for 250 girls on Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). We also felt the need to train mothers (parents) on the dangers of FGM and its relationship with HIV/AIDS. The realization that girls should not be circumcised was a shock to some Christian women. They have decided to hide their daughters from the “cut”, but this is costing them dearly. Some have been beaten up by community, husbands and some thrown out of their homes. The battle rages but the safety of one girl is worth it. The testimony of one of our Government Ministers who escaped the “cut” and got a husband is very encouraging.


3. Programme III — Women in Development
   Poverty, illiteracy and ill health continue to be rampant in many African countries. We continue to train women with skills that can empower them economically. Many Maasai women now know how to read and write. Hope you will be able to visit with them and see them in class.


4. Programme IV — Women in Evangelism
   I look forward to that day in glory when heaven will reveal how many have come to know the Lord through the efforts of PACWA. All our programmes have an evangelistic component that touches families, communities, churches and societies. I will never forget the man in Tanzania, drinking in a bar, but telling all his drinking friends — if you want your wife to change for the better, if you want to go home late and you will not be ignored, if you want peace in your home — send your wife to PACWA! Whatever it is, and whatever they give them there –it works. It has healed my marriage!


5. Conclusion — As CWC, we must look for ways to strengthen our programmes, especially the weaker nations.
   

Judy W. Mbugu