Focolare Movement

Ivory Coast: EoC symposium on the gift revolution

Apr 26, 2024

On 13 April, the CERAP University Institute in Abidjan, Côte d'Ivoire, hosted a symposium on the Economy of Communion entitled: 'The gift revolution: a new paradigm for the African economy'.

On 13 April, the CERAP University Institute in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire, hosted a symposium on the Economy of Communion entitled: ‘The gift revolution: a new paradigm for the African economy’. On April 13, 2024, the Cerap University Institute in Ivory Coast hosted a vibrant symposium focused on the Economy of Communion (EoC). Attended by 146 participants, primarily from the esteemed Economic Faculty of this University, the event provided a platform for stimulating discussions and fresh insights into alternative economic models. Against the backdrop of today’s prevailing economic norms, marked by a culture of consumption rather than contribution, attendees eagerly engaged with presentations from distinguished speakers. Father Bertin Dadier and Madame Julie Bodou Kone took center stage, illuminating the transformative potential of the EoC as a complementary force within our existing market framework. Their presentations delved into the foundational principles and values that underpin the EoC, fostering a deeper understanding among participants. Despite initial skepticism, robust exchanges ensued, with attendees seeking to unravel the practical implications of this innovative approach. One of the highlights of the symposium was the unveiling of the Chocomabs EoC enterprise, offering a tangible example of how these principles can be translated into action. As attendees delved into the case study, a palpable sense of enthusiasm and curiosity permeated the room, underscoring the relevance of such initiatives in today’s society. Steve William Azeumo, coordinator of Action for the Economy of Communion in Central Africa, delivered a powerful presentation. Azeumo emphasised the crucial role of incubating EdC entrepreneurs, offering convincing examples from Cameroon to illustrate his point. He also stressed the importance of fostering and promoting such enterprises in society, symbolising their importance with the seven colours of the rainbow. Looking ahead, the momentum generated by the symposium is poised to catalyze tangible change. Plans are underway to establish an EoC Club at the university, providing a platform for ongoing exploration and collaboration among the EoC Commission, students, and faculty members. In essence, the EoC symposium at Cerap served as a catalyst for dialogue, challenging conventional thinking and laying the groundwork for a more inclusive and sustainable economic future. Source: EoC

0 Comments

Submit a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *


Subscribe to Newsletter

Thought of the day

Related post

The Road of Hope

The Road of Hope

50 years after the publication of Card.François-Xavier Nguyễn Vân Thuân’s most famous book, an event was held in the Lateran Palace in Rome, streamed in seven languages. A new biography of the well-known witness of hope was also launched.

An invitation to a real turning point

An invitation to a real turning point

Pope Leo XIV meets the Focolare Movement and confirms the charism of unity, which is not the result of organisation or strategic planning but a reflection of the relationship between Christ and the Father. An article by Margaret Karram for “L’Osservatore Romano”.

The seal of unity

The seal of unity

During his recent audience with all the participants of the General Assembly of the Focolare Movement, Pope Leo XIV commented: “Unity is a seed – simple yet powerful – which attracts thousands of men and women, inspires vocations, and generates a zeal for evangelisation, as well as social, cultural, artistic and economic works, and is a leaven for ecumenical and interreligious dialogue.” Here are some words from Chiara Lubich, spoken on the 9th of November 1989 during a “Link-up”, which present unity to us as the rock upon which our lives are built.