In 1983, the Congregation of the Holy Spirit (Spiritans), the Missionaries of Africa, and the Society of African Missions, founded the AFJN. These three Catholic Missionary congregations, moved to action by their personal experiences in Africa, wanted to transform US policy towards Africa and her people. Their approach was two-fold: to advocate, in faith, in the nation’s Capitol for US relations with Africa that foster justice and peace; and to educate the US public about Africa and her truths.