Hamburg, October 2025. From October 17 until October 19, the German participants of the CCAP project gathered for their sixth seminar weekend at the Christian Jensen Kolleg in Breklum. The seminar focused on preparing for the upcoming encounter trip to Tanzania in January 2026.
Political and theological history of Tanzania
On Saturday, the group moved from broad perspectives to detailed questions. We began with an overview of the history and politics of independent Tanzania. After that, special attention was given to the early years under its first president, Julius Nyerere and to the developments that have led to today’s authoritarian tendencies. Based on this, we reviewed our travel plans and considered what sensitivities we, as a group of German travellers, should be aware of when visiting a country that was formerly colonised by Germany. These reflections led us to draft a code of conduct to guide us during our journey.
Photo: Group work
Sunday was dedicated to the theological aspects of the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Tanzania. We were joined by Rev. Gabriele Meyer, a long-standing overseas staff member of the Ecumenical Service and now retired pastor who will accompany us in January. Her insights provided valuable context for understanding church life and the theological landscape the group will encounter.
Encounter trip in difficult times
Shortly after the seminar, Tanzania held its national elections, which were followed by well-known outbreaks of violence and severe state repression. Despite these developments, we remain committed to undertaking the encounter trip and being with our partners during this difficult period. We are looking forward to meeting our partners in Mwanza in January.
Photo: Devotion with Rev. Gabriele Meyer
Photos: Ökumenewerk