APO Group and SECAM first entered into their partnership in May 2022, with the goal of enhancing media and public relations support for the Catholic Church in Africa. APO Group says it created the volunteer programme and assembled a team of African communications professionals.

The professionalisation of SECAM's communications capabilities extends beyond standard capacity-building. This initiative includes the development and delivery of a strategic communications framework that aligns with SECAM's core mission and long-term objectives. The effort also builds upon APO Group’s previous collaborations with the Church, which include the creation and roll-out of a communications curriculum and training programme for Catholic institutions across Africa, says APO Group. 

APO Group says the volunteer communications team will focus on key priorities, such as:

  • crafting and executing a long-term communications strategy for SECAM to strengthen the voice of the Roman Catholic Church and increase awareness of its work across Africa
  • enhancing media relations to amplify the Church's presence, and
  • designing effective visibility tools to connect with diverse stakeholders across Africa and beyond.

Several professionals have already joined the SECAM Communications Volunteer Programme, bringing a wealth of expertise and a shared commitment to advancing the Church's mission across Africa. APO Group says that among them are: 

  • Catherine Njoroge, Head of Marketing and Strategy, who plays a role in shaping long-term plans to strengthen the Church's visibility
  • Nyarai Chapingidza, Digital MarComm Manager, who drives efforts to boost SECAM's online presence
  • Lucy Kimani, Director of Communications and Advocacy, who steers impactful storytelling and advocacy campaigns, and
  • Eunice Chege, Communications Advisor, who contributes her extensive experience in developing and implementing communication strategies. 

Additionally, professionals joining the business support functions include Majina Mwasezi, Project Coordinator; Pauline Lugalia, Executive Assistant to the Head of the Catholic Church in Africa and Anne Nasumba, Marketing and Communications Coordinator, adds the group. 

Rose Thuo, who joined the programme as Chief of Marketing and Communications, says, "We are witnessing a remarkable convergence of talent and purpose. Each volunteer brings something unique to the table, and together, we are building a communications foundation that will serve the African Catholic Church for years to come."

APO Group says there is a need for candidates with HR and recruitment, as well as Graphic Design and website management experience, to join the volunteer programme. Individuals with this expertise are encouraged to apply. Interested volunteers are encouraged to apply here. 

"This pro bono initiative reflects APO Group's commitment to supporting impactful organisations across Africa. Many high-impact organisations (including NGOs) in Africa face financial barriers to establishing strong communication systems. This should never impede their ability to be seen and heard," says Nicolas Pompigne-Mognard, Founder and Chairman of APO Group. "Through initiatives like this volunteer programme, we strive to bridge that gap — delivering professional support to elevate their messaging and outreach at the highest possible level."

"Africa is now the future of the Roman Catholic Church," concludes Cardinal Fridolin Ambongo, the President of SECAM. "As our communities continue to grow, it becomes ever more important to amplify our voice and share our mission with the world. We are grateful to APO Group for their support and expertise in making this vision a reality. Their role in designing and implementing this initiative has been invaluable. APO Group's dedication to empowering impactful organisations aligns perfectly with our mission, and their contribution will undoubtedly leave a legacy in the Church's journey toward greater visibility and engagement worldwide."

For more information, visit www.apo-opa.com. You can also follow the APO Group on Facebook, LinkedIn, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor