February 19: This Day In World Christian History

February 18: This Day In African Christian History

February 18, 2025 EMMANUEL ADEBAYO AJIBOLA

February 18 holds deep significance in African Christian history, marking moments of faith, resilience, and transformation. It is a day that reflects the courage of Christian leaders, the expansion of the Church, and the unwavering commitment to peace and justice. From the birth of influential religious figures to the sacrifices of martyrs, this date serves as a reminder of the enduring impact of Christianity across the continent.

Here are some notable Christian events that took place on February 18 in African history:

1. 1957 – Catholic Church Establishes the Diocese of Kabwe, Zambia

On this day, the Roman Catholic Church officially established the Diocese of Kabwe (formerly Broken Hill) in Zambia, marking a significant step in the church’s expansion in Southern Africa.

2. 1965 – The Gambia Gains Independence with Christian Involvement

While The Gambia gained independence from Britain on February 18, 1965, Christian leaders played a key role in shaping the new nation’s governance. Though predominantly Muslim, The Gambia’s Christian minority contributed to national unity and interfaith dialogue, with Sir Dawda Jawara, a Christian-educated leader, becoming the first prime minister.

3. 1976 – Anglican Bishop Janani Luwum is martyred in Uganda.

Archbishop Janani Luwum, a vocal critic of Ugandan dictator Idi Amin, was assassinated on February 18, 1976. As the Anglican Archbishop of Uganda, Luwum openly condemned government atrocities, leading to his arrest and execution. He is celebrated as a Christian martyr and a symbol of faith and resistance.

4. 1996 – Catholic Church Calls for Peace in Burundi’s Civil War

Amidst the ongoing civil war, Catholic leaders in Burundi started on February 18, 1996, calling for peace, reconciliation, and an end to ethnic violence. The Church played a crucial role in mediating conflicts between the Hutu and Tutsi communities.

5. 2015 – 21 Coptic Christians Martyred by ISIS in Libya

On February 18, 2015, the world mourned the brutal execution of 21 Coptic Christian men from Egypt, who were beheaded by ISIS militants in Libya. Their unwavering faith, even in the face of death, became a powerful testament to Christian perseverance and martyrdom.

Significant Birthdays

Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako (born 1941, Sudan)
- A prominent Sudanese Catholic leader, Cardinal Gabriel Zubeir Wako, served as the Archbishop of Khartoum and was deeply involved in advocating for peace and religious freedom in Sudan, especially during the civil war.
- He was created a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003.
Bishop Matthew Kukah (born in 1952, in Nigeria)
- A leading Nigerian Catholic bishop and social activist, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah has been a vocal advocate for peace, democracy, and religious tolerance in Nigeria.
- He played a significant role in national reconciliation efforts and has consistently spoken out against corruption and injustice.

Notable Deaths

Archbishop Janani Luwum (died 1976, Uganda)
- Anglican Archbishop Janani Luwum was executed by Idi Amin’s regime on February 18, 1976, for opposing government brutality in Uganda.
- He is widely regarded as a Christian martyr, and the Anglican Church honours him every year on this date.
Bishop Alfred Robert Tucker (died 1914, Uganda)
- An English Anglican bishop and missionary, Bishop Alfred Tucker played a crucial role in the spread of Christianity in Uganda and East Africa.
- He established several schools, churches, and theological training institutions, contributing significantly to the growth of the Anglican Church in the region.