Ben Osawe

RURCON works with churches, Christian Development Organisations and other civil society groups across Africa facilitating holistic development.  Ben Osawe is their Anglophone Programme Officer in Jos, Nigeria, and was our visiting scholar in the Summer term of 2007.  Ben studied political economics prior to joining RURCON and has been influential in strengthening the organisation's advocacy programme, including issues of peace, conflict and poverty.  While at Redcliffe he contributed to second and third year courses and gave a paper on the politics of oil in Nigeria.

"I taught the second year students about principles of development," says Ben.  "This includes defining poverty and what development looks like from a Christian perspective.

"Third years studied the macro-economic context of development and international debt.  While I brought an African perspective to the lectures, the group of students from every continent in the world added many different points of view and perceptions of the subject.  I found this a greatly enriching experience.

"I have also been enriched by the sense of community at Redcliffe, with people from around the world accepting and serving each other.  In addition, Redcliffe's willingness to innovate impressed me.  The College is prepared to look at the changing context of the world and how mission relates to these changes.

"I believe the church in Africa has a role to play in development, similar to that of the minor prophets in the Old Testament.  Around 51% of Nigeria’s population is Christian, so we have the capacity.  We have both the technical capacity and experience to intervene in the multifaceted development challenges confronting us as a nation.  God is looking for a man to 'stand in the gap' (Ezekiel 22:30).  I believe he can use churches and individuals to make a big difference in my country and across Africa."