IPNEWS: In a historic decision on January 25, 2026, the Catholic Bishops of Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the GAMBIA have voted to merge their separate conferences into a single regional episcopal body. The resolution aims to restore a collaborative structure that previously existed among the three nations, adopting the motto “Walking Together”.
The merger, approved by a vote of seven in favor and one against, unites the Inter-Territorial Catholic Bishops’ Conference (ITCABIC) of the Gambia, and Sierra Leone with the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Liberia (CABICOL).
A Statutes Review Committee is tasked with harmonizing governing documents and managing the transition.
To strengthen regional ties, future priests will undertake philosophical studies in Liberia, theological studies in Sierra Leone, and a spiritual year in The Gambia,
The signed resolution requires submission through the Apostolic Nuncio for final Vatican approval.
The assembly, held in Makeni, Sierra Leone, concluded by entrusting the new conference to Mary, Queen of The Gambia, Liberia, and Sierra Leone.
