Reimagining Mission in and from Africa: A contextual analysis of OM Mission Approach in Southern Africa

The activities of mainline Western missionaries in Africa have been discussed by scholars from various perspectives, but much attention has not been given to mission organizations that are not affiliated with any denomination. This article therefore focuses on the work and mission approach of Operation Mobilisation (OM) in Africa. The article is based on empirical data gathered through interviews with twelve OM country leaders in Southern Africa (Angola, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe). The key aim of the interviews was to establish from the OM leaders serving in the Southern African countries their self-understanding of the local context and the contextual implications for OM's work in and from the continent. It was to also establish some opportunities and challenges for missions for the African church and Western Established Mission Organizations WEMOs. The article argues for contextual consideration of OM’s mission agenda, missionary training, and discipleship approach in Africa.