UPF-Africa Marks Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Signs MoU with FOPA

Cotonou, Benin – UPF-Africa organized a commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on January 19, 2026, in Cotonou, followed by the official signing ceremony of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Ecumenical Foundation for Peace in Africa (FOPA). The event was held in the Conference Hall of the Permanent Representation of ECOWAS in Benin.

The event paid tribute to the legacy and universal values upheld by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It also formalized a strategic partnership between UPF-Africa and FOPA, to strengthen multi-sectoral cooperation in support of peace, interreligious dialogue, and social cohesion in Africa. The approximately 30 participants included representatives of regional and international organizations, traditional authorities, religious leaders, political and institutional officials, and members of civil society.

Mr. Kijung Fabrice Sonoumey, secretary general of UPF-Benin, serving as MC, welcomed the guests and introduced the program. Dr. Paterne Zinsou, secretary general of UPF-Africa, then delivered a commemorative message, recalling the universal significance of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, rooted in nonviolence, social justice, and human dignity. He emphasized the importance of translating these values into concrete and sustainable actions.

Stressing the necessity of collective action, he highlighted the multi-sectoral vocation of UPF-Africa, emphasizing that bringing together international institutions, religious leaders, and traditional authorities constitutes a fundamental foundation for sustainable peace rooted in African realities.

Ambassador Amadou Diongue, resident representative of ECOWAS in Benin, then delivered the official opening address. He commended the joint initiative of UPF-Africa and FOPA, describing it as a significant contribution to the consolidation of peace in the sub-region. He said that peace remains fragile and requires constant nurturing, comparing it to a flower that withers quickly if not cared for daily. He also underscored the fundamental role of hope as a driving force for collective engagement, while drawing attention to the responsibility of present generations toward future generations.

Next, a thematic video highlighted the legacy of Dr. King, as well as the peacebuilding actions of UPF-Africa and FOPA.

The second phase of the event was dedicated to the signing of the memorandum of understanding between

UPF-Africa and FOPA. 

H.E. Gilbert Dake Abiaku Djokess Kpotokan II, world president of FOPA, expressed his satisfaction with this strategic partnership. He emphasized the need to promote love for one’s neighbor as a universal value transcending religions, cultures, and races, and as the foundation of any sustainable action for peace.

Dr. Paterne Zinsou then took the floor to recall the objectives of the partnership and the shared commitment of both institutions to work together for peace, interreligious dialogue, and social cohesion. Then came the official signing of the MoU, the highlight of the event, symbolizing the mutual commitment of the two organizations.

The program continued with messages of congratulations from distinguished guests, who unanimously praised the strategic importance of the partnership. H.E. Mr. Désiré Y. Batchassi, resident representative of UEMOA in Benin, congratulated the signatories and highlighted the relevance of inter-institutional cooperation in promoting peace, stability, and regional integration. He encouraged both institutions to translate the agreement into concrete and measurable actions for the benefit of the population.

H.E. Prof. Jean Bio Chabi Orou, former minister of education and former representative of Benin to UNESCO, commended the vision and leadership of the partnership’s initiators. He emphasized the fundamental role of education, value transmission, and the culture of peace.

The ceremony was closed by Ambassador Amadou Diongue, who reaffirmed his support for the initiative and encouraged UPF-Africa and FOPA to pursue their actions in synergy with regional institutions.

By Dr. Paterne Zinsou, Secretary General, UPF-Africa January 19, 2026