About Us

Who we are
SAFCEI (Southern African Faith Communities’ Environment Institute) is a multi-faith organisation committed to supporting faith leaders and their communities in Southern Africa to increase awareness, understanding and action on eco-justice, sustainable living and climate change.
It was launched in 2005 after a multi-faith environment conference which called for the establishment of a faith-based environment initiative. We have a broad spectrum of membership, including African Traditional Healers, Baha’i, Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim, Jewish, Quaker, and a wide range of Christian denominations.
We emphasise the spiritual and moral imperative to care for the Earth and the community of all life. We call for ethical leadership from all in power and speak out on issues of eco-justice, encouraging citizen action.
Our vision
People of faith caring for the living Earth
Our mission
As an Institute of many faiths, we are united in our diversity through our shared commitment to caring for living Earth.
What we do
Through collaboration, networking, training and learning, research and action, SAFCEI seeks with people of faith to:
- Raise environmental awareness;
- Promote environmental responsibility and action;
- Facilitate and support environmental advocacy;
- Confront injustices and advance eco- and socio-economic justice;
- Influence and formulate environmental policies and ethical guidelines.
We do this by
- Acting to replenish living Earth in a way that is balanced and informed by prayer, contemplation, and meditation.
- Working to build community among and between the Earth community and the Divine.
- Striving to empower and encourage people of faith to act and become agents of change.
STRATEGIC PLAN 2021-2023
- Click here to download a copy of our strategic plan.
MEET OUR STAFF

Tamzyn Pamplin
Communications Manager

Zainab Adams
FLEAT Coordinator

Portia Biggar
Office Manager / Bookkeeper

Francesca de Gasparis
Executive Director

Wayne du Plessis
Corporate Engagements Manager

Nokuthula Ndlovu
Finance and Human Resources Manager

Rev Berry Behr
Faith Leader Liaison

Gabriel Manyangadze
Programmes Manager

Phatiswa Somdaka
Junior Communications Coordinator

Sean Brown
Donor compliance and reports

Zwelisha Shobede
Cage-Free Campaign Coordinator

Tara van Ryneveld
Climate Policy Coordinator

Judy-Rose Cyster
Junior Administrative Assistant
STAFF

SAFCEI staff members 2021.
Board

SAFCEI Board and staff members
BOARD DIRECTORS
Francesca de Gasparis – Executive Director (ex officio member)
Kirtanya Lutchminarayan (Hindu)
Sister Usha Jevan (Brahma Kumaris)
Imam Salieg Isaacs (Muslim)
David Munene (Catholic)
Shaun Cozett (Anglican)
Dr. Braam Hanekom (Dutch Reform Church)
PATRON
Bishop Geoff Davies