Barthelemy Bazemo, M.Afr
Fr. Barthélémy Bazemo, M.Afr., is a member of the Society of the Missionaries of Africa and currently serves as Provincial of the Americas, overseeing the Society’s mission across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Appointed to this leadership role in July 2024, he also serves as President of the Society of Missionaries of Africa, Inc., in the United States.
Prior to joining AFJN in 2013 as a policy analyst, Fr. Bazemo spent many years studying and ministering in Kenya and Tanzania. His work included youth development, urban pastoral ministry, interfaith dialogue, human rights advocacy, good governance, and peacebuilding. Fr. Bazemo brings extensive pastoral, academic, and policy experience to AFJN’s Board.
A scholar and practitioner of African affairs, Fr. Bazemo has taught in Georgetown University’s African Studies Program, including a course on jihadism and security challenges in Africa. His scholarship and public engagement emphasize locally rooted approaches to peacebuilding, community resilience, human dignity, governance, and the prevention of violent extremism.
He holds a Ph.D. in African Studies from Howard University, specializing in Africa in world affairs, governance, and foreign policy. He also holds a master’s degree in Peace Studies and International Relations, a Bachelor of Theology, and a graduate diploma in Communications.His studies have included Howard University, the Catholic University of Eastern Africa, Hekima University College, Tangaza University, the Centre Supérieur de Philosophie in Ouagadougou.
Fr. Bazemo is proficient in several languages, among others, French, English, and Swahili. His international experience, commitment to Catholic social teaching, and expertise in peacebuilding and African affairs strengthen AFJN’s mission of advancing justice, peace, and accountable governance in Africa.
Email: bazemo@afjn.org
