Shluchim Gather in Kinshasa for Historic First-Ever Central African Conference

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Shluchim from 11 Central African nations convened in Kinshasa for the first-ever regional conference on African soil, marking a significant step in cross-border collaboration, according to Anash.org. The event, held in June 2026, brought together representatives from countries including the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, and others, as part of efforts to strengthen communal ties and address shared challenges.

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What is the Shluchim movement?
The Shluchim, or emissaries, are Jewish outreach workers affiliated with the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, a global network focused on promoting Jewish education and religious observance. While primarily active in diaspora communities, the group has expanded its presence in Africa over the past decade, establishing centers in cities such as Johannesburg, Nairobi, and now Kinshasa. The conference in the DRC’s capital was described as “a milestone” by organizers, highlighting the growing influence of the movement on the continent.

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According to Anash.org, the gathering aimed to foster dialogue among Shluchim from Central Africa, share best practices, and explore ways to enhance their impact in regions with limited Jewish infrastructure. Participants discussed strategies for community engagement, youth programs, and interfaith initiatives, with a focus on areas where Jewish populations are small or historically marginalized.

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Why is this event significant?
The conference represents the first time Shluchim from multiple Central African countries have convened in a single location, underscoring the movement’s expanding reach. Historically, Chabad’s African operations have been concentrated in southern and eastern regions, but the Kinshasa event signaled a strategic shift toward the continent’s central corridors.

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“Kinshasa is a hub of cultural and economic activity, and its strategic position makes it an ideal base for outreach efforts,” said a representative from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement, citing the city’s growing Jewish community and its role as a diplomatic and commercial center. The representative, who did not provide a name, added that the conference aimed to “bridge gaps between Shluchim and local leaders, fostering mutual understanding.”

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What challenges do Shluchim face in Central Africa?
Despite the optimism surrounding the conference, Shluchim operating in Central Africa face unique challenges, including limited resources, political instability, and cultural barriers. In the DRC, for example, Jewish communities are small and dispersed, with few synagogues or religious institutions.

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A 2025 report by the World Jewish Congress noted that Chabad’s presence in the DRC remains “tentative,” with outreach efforts often reliant on international funding and volunteer support. The report also highlighted the risks associated with operating in regions with weak governance, where security concerns can hinder long-term planning.

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How does this event align with broader trends?
The Kinshasa conference reflects a broader trend of Chabad’s global expansion, which has seen the movement establish a footprint in over 1,000 cities worldwide. In Africa, Chabad’s focus has shifted from purely religious outreach to include social services, such as food distribution and educational programs, particularly in underserved areas.

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“Chabad’s approach in Africa is evolving,” said Dr. Rachel Klein, a historian specializing in Jewish diaspora studies. “While the movement has always emphasized religious education, there is now a stronger emphasis on community development, which aligns with local needs.” Klein’s comments were made in a 2024 interview with the Jerusalem Post, where she noted that such initiatives have helped Chabad gain greater acceptance in regions where it was previously seen as an outsider.

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What are the next steps for the Shluchim in Central Africa?
Following the conference, organizers announced plans to establish a regional Shluchim network, which would facilitate information sharing and joint projects across the 11 participating countries. The network’s first priority is to create a centralized database of Jewish communities in Central Africa, a step aimed at improving coordination and resource allocation.

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A statement from the conference’s organizing committee, obtained by Anash.org, emphasized the importance of “building sustainable partnerships with local leaders, governments, and international organizations.” The committee also cited the need for additional funding, noting that many Shluchim in the region operate on shoestring budgets.

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How has the local community responded?
The response from Kinshasa’s broader community has been mixed. While some residents welcomed the Shluchim’s presence as a sign of cultural diversity, others expressed concerns about the movement’s long-term goals.

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“Chabad has done good work in providing food and education, but we worry about their influence,” said a local business owner, who requested anonymity. “We need to ensure that their activities align with our values and traditions.”

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What does this mean for the future?
The Kinshasa conference has been widely viewed as a symbolic moment for the Shluchim movement in Africa, but its long-term impact remains to be seen. Analysts suggest that sustained success will depend on the ability of Shluchim to adapt to local contexts while maintaining their core mission.

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“Success in Central Africa won’t be measured by the number of synagogues built, but by the depth of trust and collaboration achieved,” said Dr. Klein, the historian. “If Chabad can navigate these complexities, it could set a precedent for other diaspora movements seeking to expand into underrepresented regions.”

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“Kinshasa is a hub of cultural and economic activity, and its strategic position makes it an ideal base for outreach efforts,” said a representative from the Chabad-Lubavitch movement.