In recognition of his transformative work in peace, justice, and human development across Africa, a Cameroonian priest has bagged the “In Illo Uno Unum,” Papal Distinction award.
Rev. Fr. Peter Afoukeze Kebei-Ghongson, who received the award from Pope Leo XIV, is a peace ambassador and an acclaimed champion of justice, dialogue, and peace across Africa.
The priest was honoured for his high-profile role in peace mediation, peace-building and development in Africa during the Pope’s apostolic pilgrimage to Cameroon between 15 and 18 April 2026.
The “In Illo Uno Unum,” Papal Distinction award. Credit: Civitas Cameroon.
Conveying its felicitation, an NGO, Civitas Cameroon, warmly congratulated the priest “on receiving the prestigious papal distinction.”
Civitas underlined that recognition “speaks volumes about the transformative work being done for peace, justice, and human development across Africa.”
The Director of the Piarist Development and Peace Office — ITAKA Escolapios for Central Africa, a network dedicated to integral sustainability, formation, and social development, is also the Provincial Administrator of the Piarist Fathers for the Province of Central Africa, which covers Cameroon, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Known for fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse faith communities, the cleric has been recognised by multiple religious leaders for his ecumenical and peacebuilding efforts.
Rev. Fr. Peter Afoukeze Kebei-Ghongson, recipient of the award, in a warm handshake with Pope Leo XIV. Credit: Civitas Cameroon.
Besides initiating projects across schools through providing scholarships for underprivileged youth, healthcare and clean water access across Central Africa, Advocatus Africa gathered that from Cameroon to Gabon, Equatorial Guinea to the DRC, Fr. Kebei-Ghongson has served vulnerable communities in advancing interfaith dialogue, promoting education and providing healthcare and clean water.
The priest belongs to the Piarist Order, the Clerical Order of the Pious Schools, Scholae Piae, the oldest religious order dedicated to education, founded in 1617.
Ordained a priest on 12 August 2020, beyond his philosophical and theological studies, the certified peace advocate by Swiss Peace and Global Peace Chain UK, holds a Master’s degree in Development Planning.
Editor’s Note: Featured photo is courtesy of Civitas Cameroon.
