3rd 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.

This year’s Jewish Africa Conference will center around the themes of resilience, identity, and hope, highlighting how Jewish communities across the continent have preserved their heritage despite challenges. Their resilience is evident in their ability to adapt to changing social and political landscapes while maintaining their traditions. Identity remains a cornerstone of their existence, as they balance their Jewish faith with their African cultural surroundings. Meanwhile, hope continues to drive these communities forward, ensuring their traditions thrive for future generations. The conference aims to celebrate and explore these themes through meaningful dialogue and collaboration.

This summit will bring together leaders from various Jewish African communities across the continent, along with specialists in Jewish African studies and academic researchers. They will engage in discussions on Jewish life in Africa, the historical background of Jewish African tribes, and the current realities faced by these minority communities.

The summit is honored to host a distinguished group of diplomats, representatives from international organizations, and envoys from various countries. The presence of high-level officials and key stakeholders reflects the significance of the event in fostering dialogue and collaboration on important regional and global issues.

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.

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.