NAIROBI, Kenya (RNS) — President-elect Donald Trump has never visited Africa and is known to have made disparaging remarks about the continent. But as Christian leaders look to his inauguration this Monday (Jan. 20), they see areas of common cause.
Since the November elections, many church leaders have followed Trump’s interactions, public statements and activities. When it comes to defending Christianity, religious freedom and resolving world conflicts, they like what they see.
The Rev. Lambert Mbela, a bishop of the Redeemed Gospel Church, said he plans to watch Trump’s second inauguration and said the Israel-Hamas ceasefire agreement, expected to begin Sunday with the first hostage exchange, is a good sign.
“I believe this (electoral victory) contributed to the peace deal,” he said. “I think he catalyzed it. My greatest expectation is that he is going to do something … that will change many things around the world.”
Nigerian Baptist pastor the Rev. Joseph John Hayab hopes Trump’s administration will support religious freedom and emphasize family values, as well as provide support for counterterrorism efforts against groups such as northern Nigeria’s Boko Haram and al-Shabaab, the Somalia based al-Qaida affiliate in East Africa.
“Many African churches hope that Trump will continue to champion religious freedom and support for Christians, especially in …