Israel has good friends in Africa

TSHEGO MOTAUNG

PHOTOGRAPHS: ILAN OSSENDRYVER

Pictured: Shofar blowers Elliot Klass and Bulelani Mkhohliswa.

Vuka Africa Foundation and House of Prayer for all Nations, in partnership with Beza International Ministries, Ethiopia and the Institute of Christian Leadership Development, on September 21 hosted the inaugural dinner.

The evening brought together a diverse group of South Africans, ranging from high profile business people to villagers, young and old from all racial groups, as well as delegates from different Africans nations, all united by their love and support for Israel.

In 2010, some 18 African nations celebrated their jubilee: 50 years of liberation from colonialism. In 2011, the African spiritual leaders declared that this jubilee was not only for the celebratory nations, but that it was a time of jubilee for the whole continent. 

They said they received a mandate from G-d to pray and get the church in Africa to understand the importance of the Nation of Israel in His plan and for the church to stand and bless Israel. The leaders were able to understand that Africa’s blessing is linked to Africa standing and blessing Israel.

Israel’s Ambassador to South Africa Arthur Lenk, was the guest of honour and Dr Betta Mengustu, founder of Beza International Ministries in Ethiopia and visionary of the Africa Arise Conference, was the keynote speaker.

Jewish leadership from the SA Jewish Board of Deputies, SA Zionist Federation, SA Friends of Israel, Magen Dovid Adom and the Israel Centre, also attended.

In addition to Ambassador Lenk and Dr Mengustu, speakers included Rabbi David Masinter of Chabad House, Pastor Olusegun Olanipekua of the Institute for Christian Leadership Development, and Apostle Linda Gobodo. Wendy Lehabe well-known businesswoman, was programme director. 

Apostle Gobodo, founder of Vuka Africa Foundation, together with Reeva Forman vice chairman of the SAZF, spearheaded the event, marking the beginning of a movement in Africa to ensure that the continent will receive the full portion of her blessing as she stands to bless Israel. 

Apostle Gobodo has been taking this message to the continent, calling on Africans to recognise that this is their season to rise, to lead the restoration and to rebuild Africa’s ancient ruins and desolations. She believes that standing with Israel will truly usher Africa into her jubilee, a season of true liberty both politically and economically.