Jubilee Year · March 2026 to May 2027
Tangaza @ 40
A Jubilee of Faith, Mission and Academic Excellence
Forty years of forming missionaries, scholars and leaders for the Church and society, culminating in the Pan-African International Conference, 19-21 November 2026.
Conference opens in
Pan-African International Conference, Tangaza University, 19-21 November 2026.
Before · During · After
Fourteen Months of Thanksgiving
Three movements, from the opening Mass in March 2026 to the closing ceremony in May 2027, with the November conference and the third graduation at the centre of the year.
Inaugural Mass launches the Jubilee Year
The Tangaza @ 40 celebrations opened with a Eucharistic celebration of thanksgiving, gathering staff, students, alumni and friends of the university.
- DateThursday, 26 March 2026
- VenueNuru Building, Main Hall
- PresiderHis Lordship Bishop Rodrigo, SJ
A pioneer founder of Tangaza returned to preside over the Mass that opened its fortieth-anniversary year.
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Sat 11 Apr 2026
University Walk
A community walk marking the Jubilee Year, bringing staff, students and alumni together on the road around the campus.
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Mon 17 Aug 2026
Opening of the Academic Year
The university opened its academic year inside the Jubilee, gathering faculty, staff and students for the start of the new session.
Fri 13 Nov 2026
Third Graduation Ceremony
The university confers degrees and diplomas at its third graduation, six days before the Jubilee conference opens.
Chief Guest
H.E. Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, EGH
Prime Cabinet Secretary, Republic of Kenya
Constellations of Hope
A Pan-African academic conference marking the centenary of the birth of Pope Benedict XVI (1927 to 2027) alongside the fortieth anniversary of the university. Three days of keynotes, plenaries, paper presentations and liturgy.
The Jubilee Year closes
The Jubilee Year closes on Saturday, 22 May 2027, drawing to an end fourteen months of thanksgiving, celebration, remembrance and renewal.
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Sat 22 May 2027
Closing Ceremony of the Jubilee Year
The formal close of Tangaza @ 40. Full details of the ceremony will be published here nearer the date.
Conference Theme
Constellations of Hope: Africa and the Renewal of the Church in the Vision of Benedict XVI
Convened in commemoration of the centenary of the birth of Pope Benedict XVI and in celebration of the fortieth anniversary of Tangaza University: a convergence of theology, African scholarship and the life of the Church.
HOST
ACADEMIC PARTNER
PATRON FOUNDATION
Concept Note
Why This Conference, Why Now
The argument behind the theme, and the eight sub-themes the three days are organised around.
Benedict XVI held that faith and reason are not rivals but two wings on which the human spirit rises. The conference asks what that conviction means for Africa now: for its universities, its liturgy, its social crises and its place in the world Church.
The centenary of Joseph Ratzinger's birth falls in 2027. It arrives at a moment when African Catholicism is no longer a mission field being described by others but a centre of gravity describing itself: in numbers, in vocations, in theological output, and in the questions it puts to the universal Church.
Tangaza University turns forty in the same season. Founded in 1986 as a centre for missionary formation, it has become a university forming scholars, clergy, educators and lay leaders across the continent. The two anniversaries frame a single question, which the conference takes as its work.
The title borrows an image. A constellation is not one light but many, and it is only legible when you know how to read the pattern between them. The papers gathered here treat African hope the same way. It is not a single doctrine but a set of related lights: theological, pedagogical, liturgical, ecclesial and social.
Eight sub-themes organise the three days. Contributions are welcome from theology, philosophy, education, the social sciences and pastoral practice, and from scholars outside the Catholic tradition whose work bears on these questions.
The Eight Sub-Themes
Papers are invited under any of the following. Name your sub-theme in the abstract and in the subject line of your submission.
Theology of Hope and African Realities
Hope as a theological virtue read against poverty, conflict, migration and renewal on the continent.
Faith and Reason in African Higher Education
Ratzinger's central concern applied to curriculum, research culture and the purpose of the Catholic university in Africa.
Liturgy, Inculturation, and Sacred Beauty
Worship, aesthetics and the long argument over inculturation in African liturgical practice.
Ecclesiology and Synodality
How the Church understands and governs itself, and what synodal practice asks of African local Churches.
Truth, Charity, and Social Transformation
Caritas in Veritate as a working framework for justice, economy and public life.
Leadership and Formation for the 21st Century
Forming clergy, religious and lay leaders for institutions under real pressure.
Africa and the Global Church
The continent as contributor rather than recipient in world Catholicism.
Education as a Constellation of Hope
Christocentric pedagogy and the school as a site of hope, from primary classroom to doctoral supervision.
Call for Papers
Submissions and Deadlines
The call is in its revision stage. Where you are in the process is marked on the track below.
Authors who have received reviewer feedback should submit revised papers by this date. This deadline has been extended from the date given in the original call.
- AnnouncedCall for papers opens
- CompletedReviewer feedback issued to authors
- 15 Sep 2026Revised papers due
- To be confirmedFinal programme published
- 19-21 Nov 2026Conference convenes at Tangaza
Speakers & Keynote Profiles
The Voices at Tangaza @ 40
A keynote from Rome by way of Cape Coast, plenary sessions from across the continent, and the institutional leaders opening the three days.
Principal Celebrant & Keynote Speaker
Cardinal Peter Turkson
Cardinal Turkson served as President of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace from 2009 to 2017, and as the inaugural Prefect of the Dicastery for the Promotion of Integral Human Development from 2017 to 2021. He was Archbishop of Cape Coast from 1992 to 2009, and was made a cardinal by Pope John Paul II in 2003.
He has twice been regarded as papabile, a likely candidate for the papacy, at the 2013 conclave that elected Pope Francis, and again at the 2025 conclave that elected Pope Leo XIV.
His decades of work on justice, peace and integral human development speak directly to Tangaza’s own mission of forming leaders in faith, mission and academic excellence. He leads the podium across all three days and presides at the concluding Mass.
Rev. Prof. Peter Neema-Abooki
Higher Education and Lifelong Learning, University of Namibia. Formerly of the East African School of Higher Education Studies and Development, Makerere University.
Rev. Dr. Stan Chu Ilo
Session G: Africa and the Global Church.
Opening Ceremony & Institutional Leaders
- Prof. Daniel KitongaWelcoming Remarks
- Rev. Prof. Patrick Mwania, CSSpVice Chancellor, Tangaza University
- Rev. Dr. James P. Burns, IVDPresident, Saint Mary's University of Minnesota
- Rev. Prof. Roberto RegoliPresident, Fondazione Vaticana Joseph Ratzinger-Benedetto XVI
- Rt. Rev. Dr. Emmanuel C. MaduwikeAnglican Bishop, Diocese of Ikeduru, Nigeria
- Archbishop Philip AnyoloArchbishop, Archdiocese of Nairobi
Plenary & Thematic Sessions
- Rev. Dr. Idahosa AmadasuTheology of Hope and African Realities
- Rev. Prof. Maurice Agbaw-EbaiFaith and Reason in African Higher Education
- Archbishop Anthony MuheriaLiturgy, Inculturation, and Sacred Beauty
- Rev. Fr. Alessandro ClemenziaEcclesiology and Synodality
- Rev. Dr. Sahaya G. SelvamTruth, Charity, and Social Transformation
- Mrs. Karen BasiyeLeadership and Formation for the 21st Century
The programme also carries academic paper presentations and breakout-room sessions across all three days.
Three Days
The Conference Programme
An overview of each day. The full minute-by-minute programme, including every paper presentation and breakout session, is available from the secretariat.
19 November 2026 Opening & keynote
- Arrival & registration, 08:00
- Opening ceremony & institutional addresses
- Keynote Address by Cardinal Peter Turkson
- Theology of Hope and African Realities
- Eucharistic Celebration & Dedication of the LRC
- Faith and Reason in African Higher Education
- Liturgy, Inculturation, and Sacred Beauty
- Ecclesiology and Synodality
- Solemn Vespers with Benediction
20 November 2026 Plenary & breakouts
- Solemn Lauds & recap of Day One
- Truth, Charity, and Social Transformation
- Leadership and Formation for the 21st Century
- Holy Mass
- Africa and the Global Church
- Education as a Constellation of Hope
- Breakout-room presentations & Q&A
- Concluding prayer
21 November 2026 Retrospective & closing
- History of Tangaza: presentation & documentaries
- Summary of Days One and Two
- Concluding speeches from partner institutions
- Departure to Holy Family Basilica
- Concluding Holy Mass with Cardinal Peter Turkson
- Lunch & excursion
Registration Portal
Register to Attend
Two routes, depending on where you are travelling from. International delegates receive a letter of invitation for visa purposes on confirmed registration.
Local Delegates
For delegates travelling from within Kenya and the East African Community. No visa or letter of invitation is required.
- Access to all three days of sessions
- Conference pack and proceedings
- Daily lunch and tea breaks
- Certificate of participation
- Saturday excursion
To confirm your place, write to conferences2026@tangaza.ac.ke with your name, institution and the days you plan to attend.
International Delegates
For delegates travelling from outside the East African Community. A letter of invitation for visa purposes is issued on request.
- Access to all three days of sessions
- Conference pack and proceedings
- Daily lunch and tea breaks
- Letter of invitation for visa application
- Accommodation arranged by the secretariat
Write to conferences2026@tangaza.ac.ke with your name, institution, passport name and travel dates. Kenya requires an approved eTA before travel; apply once your place is confirmed.
Venue & Logistics
Getting Here and Staying Here
The campus sits on Langata South Road in Karen, south-west of central Nairobi. The secretariat can help with directions, accommodation and airport transfers.
The Venue
Tangaza University
Langata South Road
Karen, Nairobi, Kenya
Sessions are held on the main campus. The opening Mass and the dedication of the Learning Resource Centre take place in the Nuru Building, Main Hall. The concluding Mass on Day Three is at the Holy Family Basilica in the city centre, with transport provided from campus.
- From Jomo Kenyatta International AirportBy road via Mombasa Road and Langata Road. Allow extra time in morning and evening traffic.
- From Wilson AirportA short drive south-west along Langata Road.
- From the city centreVia Langata Road towards Karen. Matatu and ride-hailing services both serve the route.
Accommodation
Accommodation for invited guests is arranged by the secretariat according to delegate category.
- Cardinals and BishopsRoussel House, Donum Dei.
- Other international guestsRadix Hotel.
Delegates travelling from within Kenya make their own arrangements. The secretariat can advise on options near the campus.
Conference Secretariat
For paper submissions, registration, letters of invitation and accommodation enquiries.
- Conferenceconferences2026@tangaza.ac.ke
- Generalinquiries@tangaza.ac.ke
- Telephone+254 722 204 724
- Alternate+254 733 885 059
- PostalP.O. Box 15055, 00509
Langata South Road, Nairobi
Before You Travel
Practical Notes for Delegates
Entry requirements, flights, weather, connectivity and what to see while you are in the city. Pick a topic on the left.
- Travel documents
- All delegates must travel with a valid travel document. Citizens of East African Community (EAC) Partner States may enter Kenya using a valid national identity card or passport, in accordance with EAC free movement arrangements. Delegates travelling with a passport should ensure that it is valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry into Kenya, and that it contains sufficient blank pages for immigration stamps where applicable.
- Visa and eTA
- Citizens of EAC Partner States are generally exempt from Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) requirements. Delegates from non-EAC countries should confirm whether they require an eTA and, where applicable, apply online well in advance of travel through the official Kenya eTA portal before departure.
- Yellow fever certificate
- Travellers arriving from, or transiting through, countries with a risk of yellow fever transmission may be required to present a valid International Certificate of Vaccination or Prophylaxis (ICVP), commonly known as the yellow card. Confirm the requirements that apply to your country of departure before travelling, and carry the certificate with your travel documents where it is required.
Nairobi is served primarily by Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA), which has excellent connections to most destinations in the region. For some regional flights, Wilson Airport may be the alternative.
Please confirm your flight details in advance and plan to arrive in good time for registration and any pre-conference activities. Road routes from both airports to the Karen campus are set out in the Venue section above.
- Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA)The main international gateway, east of the city. Most long-haul and international connections arrive here.
- Wilson AirportSmaller and closer to Karen, serving regional and domestic flights.
- ArrivalDay One opens with registration at 08:00 on Thursday 19 November 2026. Arriving the day before is advisable.
Nairobi sits at roughly 1,800 metres above sea level, which keeps the climate mild despite the city being close to the equator.
November falls within the short rains. Daytime temperatures are typically in the low to mid twenties Celsius, with noticeably cooler evenings. Showers tend to arrive in the afternoon or evening and are usually brief rather than prolonged.
- What to packLayers for cool mornings and evenings, a light rain jacket or compact umbrella, and comfortable walking shoes.
- SunThe altitude makes the sun stronger than the temperature suggests. Sun protection is advisable.
Replace this panel with the secretariat’s own guidance, or confirm the figures, before publishing.
Nairobi is a vibrant international city and, as in many major cities around the world, visitors are encouraged to exercise normal safety precautions.
Delegates are advised to remain alert, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transport such as hotel-arranged taxis or recognised ride-hailing services. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep digital or hard copies of important travel documents separate from the originals. If you are out after dark, remain aware of your surroundings and take appropriate personal safety precautions.
Kenya’s national emergency number. In an emergency you may also contact the Conference Secretariat at conferences2026@tangaza.ac.ke.
Mobile coverage and internet access in Nairobi are generally reliable, with 4G available in most areas and 5G in some locations.
Delegates may use international roaming, an eSIM where supported, or buy a local SIM card from authorised outlets, including at the airport and major shopping centres. SIM registration normally requires a valid ID or passport.
- Venue Wi-FiAvailability and access details will be provided on registration. Most Nairobi hotels offer Wi-Fi, though speeds vary.
- Data and callsA short-term data bundle covers maps, ride-hailing and email. Keep a small amount of airtime for calls and SMS.
- Power and chargingKenya uses 240V with UK-style Type G plugs. Carry an adapter, and a power bank for travel days.
- Conference updatesOfficial announcements go to your registered email address, so please monitor it.
Nairobi is the only capital city in Africa with a national park inside its boundaries.
We encourage you to use your time in Kenya to see something of the city. The sites below are easily reached and offer a glimpse of Kenya’s wildlife, history, culture and heritage.
- Nairobi National ParkKenya’s renowned wildlife, a short distance from the city centre.
- Nairobi Animal OrphanageRescued and rehabilitated wild animals, with a focus on conservation.
- National Museums of KenyaCultural, historical and natural heritage across a range of exhibits and collections.
- Giraffe CentreClose encounters with the endangered Rothschild’s giraffe and the work to protect it.
- Kenya International Convention CentreOne of Nairobi’s most recognisable landmarks, with panoramic views from the rooftop.
- Nairobi Railway MuseumKenya’s railway history and the part it played in shaping the country.
- Nairobi Art GalleryExhibitions of Kenyan art, culture and history in a historic setting.
- Sheldrick Elephant SanctuaryThe life of elephants and the conservation work of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust.
- Nairobi Museum of IllusionsAn interactive destination with more than sixty optical, visual and sensory exhibits.
We hope you enjoy your stay in Nairobi and take the opportunity to experience some of what makes Kenya a remarkable destination.
Join Tangaza University for a Journey of Knowledge and Excellence!
By enrolling in our diverse range of programs, you will join a community of passionate learners and accomplished faculty who are dedicated to nurturing your intellectual curiosity and preparing you for success in a rapidly evolving world.
Join Tangaza University for a Journey of Knowledge and Excellence!
By enrolling in our diverse range of programs, you will join a community of passionate learners and accomplished faculty who are dedicated to nurturing your intellectual curiosity and preparing you for success in a rapidly evolving world.
- Langata South Road, Karen - Nairobi
- P.O. Box 15055 - 00509
- +254 722 204 724
- +254 733 685 059
- +254 208 067 667
- inquiries@tangaza.ac.ke