HISTORY

Beginnings
During the summer of 1961, Michael Cassidy, a South African, set out on an exploratory visit to 31 major cities of Africa . God opened door after door during that trip and Michael was convinced that his calling was to evangelism in the cities of Africa, and very specially to its leadership circles. During that trip Michael went for a long solitary walk on the beach to spend time alone with the Lord. An excerpt from the book African Harvest recalls the experience:

Suddenly, on impulse, Michael drew a vast outline of Africa in the sand. He scrawled: ‘Claimed for Jesus Christ’ inside it. He wrote in his diary ‘I also asked God for 50 years of ministry in Africa.’

The first city-wide mission was held the following year in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. The mission was extraordinarily successful with many acknowledging Jesus as Lord and Saviour and committing themselves to follow him. In 2007, 46 years later, Michael’s ministry and the ministry of AE continue to grow and impact lives in and through Christ. God has been faithful!
 

Pan African Development
If AE was to reach the 31 cities that Michael had visited and beyond there were going to be geographical and cultural barriers. The need for more teams became quickly evident. A second team was established in Uganda in 1971 under the leadership of the late Bishop Festo Kivengere. As opportunities and funds became available other teams were established.

AE Australia was established in 1978 following an extended visit here from Bishop Festo when he was in exile from Uganda during the time of Idi Amin. Many responded to the needs and opportunities that the continent of Africa presented for ministry and many continue to respond today.

AE Today
Today AE is a partnership of approximately 600 staff and countless volunteers and friends representing ten national teams, a pan African mission team, a reconciliation department, a training department and support teams in seven countries across the globe. These teams, departments, boards and individuals have covenanted themselves to continue the mission given to AE at the start - ‘To evangelise the cities of Africa through word and deed, in partnership with the church.’