- Pope Leo XIV called on Catholic communicators gathered in Kigali, Rwanda, to use digital communication platforms to promote the common good, human dignity, truth, and environmental stewardship.
- The Pope's message was delivered by the apostolic nuncio in Rwanda during the first-ever SIGNIS World Congress held in Africa, themed 'Digital Communication for Cultural Harmony and Environmental Well-Being'.
- In his message, Pope Leo XIV expressed his hope that the congress would provide 'a new impetus' for ensuring that communication platforms serve the common good of the human family.
- Ruffini, prefect of the Dicastery for Communication, warned that AI must not come at the expense of human relationships and said, 'We must never allow algorithms to write our story.'
- On August 4, the first day of the congress, panels addressed key challenges including synodal communication, environmental communication, child protection, and peace journalism.
- Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu noted that Africa is hosting the congress for the first time, emphasizing that Catholic communicators must prioritize discipleship over online metrics.
- The congress runs in Kigali through August 8, with participants from over 20 African countries.
Pope Leo XIV addressed the SIGNIS World Congress in Kigali, emphasizing the need for digital communication to uphold human dignity and promote the common good. He cautioned against the influence of algorithms on culture, urging communicators to prioritize authentic human connections over technological advancements.13
In a message delivered by Archbishop Fortunatus Nwachukwu, the Pope expressed hope that the Congress would inspire strategies that align with Gospel values and environmental stewardship. He noted that the digital age reshapes culture and influences collective conscience, stating, “We must never allow algorithms to write our story.”89
The Congress, themed “Digital Communication for Cultural Harmony and Environmental Well-Being,” marks the first time it is held in Africa, highlighting the Church's growing voice on a global scale. Participants discussed the challenges posed by artificial intelligence and the importance of safeguarding children in the digital space, with calls for stronger digital literacy and accountability from tech companies.
Archbishop Nwachukwu emphasized that Catholic communicators should focus on their identity as disciples rather than chasing online metrics. “The core challenge of AI is not technological, but anthropological,” he stated, urging a return to genuine human encounters.
The Congress also addressed environmental communication, with speakers advocating for the integration of ecological concerns into pastoral programs. “We transform waste into helpful resources,” said Sr. Juunza C. Mwangani, highlighting the role of agriculture in ecological conversion.67
Overall, the Congress aims to foster a culture of peace and responsibility in digital communication, ensuring that technology serves humanity rather than the other way around.
“The congress, running through August 8, is the first SIGNIS World Congress held in Africa, with participants from over 20 countries. Speakers like Archbishop Nwachukwu stressed that Catholic communicators must prioritize discipleship over online metrics, while Dr. Govekar warned that AI's core challenge is anthropological, not technological.”
National Catholic Register
