3rd Edition

Why a Third Edition ?

The success of the first two editions of the Jewish Africa Summit demonstrated the growing need for a dedicated platform to celebrate Jewish heritage across the continent and strengthen connections within Jewish communities. Each edition has fostered meaningful dialogue, cultural preservation, and interfaith collaboration, highlighting the rich contributions of Jewish African communities. The third edition aims to build on this momentum, addressing contemporary challenges, amplifying shared successes, and reinforcing partnerships that promote cultural exchange, unity, and resilience across Africa and beyond.

The Context

Since Biblical times, from Abrahams journey to Egypt and the later Israelite captivity under the Pharaohs, the Jewish People have had close ties with Africa. Some Jewish communities in Africa are amongst the oldest in the world, dating back more than 2,700 years (Morocco, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, and Algeria). Today, Jews and Judaism in Africa show an ethnic and religious diversity and richness almost unparalleled on any other continent.

The Speakers

This summit will convene leaders of several Jewish African communities across the continent as well as Jewish African studies specialists and Academic researchers to speak about the Jewish life in Africa, the history of the Jewish African tribes and the contemporary situation of these minorities.

The Guests

The summit is honored by the presence of several diplomats including the Consul General of Morocco, UN Representatives, but also representatives and ambassadors from South Sudan, Ethiopia, Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco and Israel, and especially Mr Adama Dieng, the United Nations Secretary-General’s Special Adviser for the Prevention of Genocide

The Venue

Cape Town, often referred to as the “Mother City,” is a testament to cultural resilience. Bringing Jewish African communities to Cape Town not only reinforces ties between Jewish communities across the continent but also showcases the rich legacy of South African Jewry and the country’s continued dedication to fostering diversity and interfaith collaboration.

Days

Speakers

Shows

432

Attendees

Exhibitions

Why in Cape Town ?

A city of religious tolerance

South Africa holds a unique place in Jewish history on the African continent, with a rich heritage that dates back to the early 19th century. Cape Town, home to South Africa’s first Jewish congregation established in 1841, became a vital center for Jewish life, culture, and faith. The city’s synagogues, Jewish museums, and educational institutions stand as living monuments to a thriving community that played a key role in the country’s development.

South African Jews have historically contributed to the struggle for justice and equality, with prominent Jewish figures actively participating in the fight against apartheid and advocating for human rights. The Jewish cultural imprint can also be found in Cape Town’s vibrant neighborhoods, where Jewish-owned businesses, kosher establishments, and communal organizations foster a sense of belonging and continuity.

Cape Town’s unique position at the crossroads of global Jewish connections—bridging African, European, and Middle Eastern influences—makes it a fitting host for the third edition of the Jewish Africa Summit. The city embodies resilience, diversity, and the enduring spirit of Jewish life on the African continent. By choosing Cape Town, the summit aims to honor this profound heritage while strengthening bonds between Jewish communities across Africa and beyond, promoting cultural preservation, education, and interfaith dialogue for future generations.

Jewish African Summit

Provisional Program

Explore the conference program.

Event Organizers

Discover the summit organizers.