Afatchao, Koffi Romaric

Koffi Romaric Afatchao is an International Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service.

The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world.

Koffi earned a Bachelor of Science degree in animal biology and physiology at the University of Lomé in Togo. He is especially interested in youth ministry.

“I want to serve as a scholar and give my all for God’s mission,” he said. “As young people, we have a commitment to work for the Lord of the causes and issues facing communities today. The church must act through the engagement of young people to solve problems of social injustice and racism.”

As a Global Mission Fellow, Koffi hopes to use his talents and time “to grow communities as well as organizations and to make a difference in solving issues facing the church and the world,” he said. He looks forward to acquiring new skills and experiences and strengthening his commitment and leadership abilities.

“It is also a way for me to familiarize myself with other cultures, learn new things, be flexible and understand other realities of life and in the ecumenical world,” Koffi said. He is eager to help young people and communities around the world.

“This commitment,” he noted, “also will allow me to make a difference in the cultural diversity of each congregation.” He sees his role as helping youth to understand the gospel as they journey on the path of Christian commitment.

Raised in a Christian family, Koffi was baptized as a young child. He learned the importance and the meaning of the sacrament.

“As I followed the teachings and participated in prayer, praise and worship,” he said, “I came to know Jesus in a different way. This led me to switch from children’s worship to catechism.

“I was confirmed and thus able to participate in the common meal established by our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.” He joined the youth association in his community, volunteering “to enlarge the kingdom of God on earth.”

Because of Jesus’ presence, Koffi and his family have been blessed.