Our history
APF was founded in 1981 by Revd. Derek Blundell who identified the need for pastoral training and formation in Africa whilst visiting missionary partners as part of his pastoral ministry. There was also a need for Biblical and theological literature in local languages, bicycles and other tools to enable more effective ministry especially in rural locations.
Since then APF has built a committed UK supporter base, diversified its training and portfolio of ministries, forged strong inter-denominational links and now operates in seven countries: Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Kenya, Malawi, Rwanda, Tanzania and Uganda but capacity building for Christian leaders remains the core activity.
“Derek Blundell came with the aim to assist pastors through teaching, transport and literature. During the time of Ralph Hanger cottage industry workshops were added which greatly benefitted pastor’s wives to generate income to support the ministry. The emphasis on literature, especially in our local languages and encouragement to local authors has been greatly appreciated.”
Bishop Francis Ntiruka (retired), Former Bishop of Tabora, TanzaniaAPF today
Where we work
We currently work with partners in seven East African countries: Uganda, Kenya, Tanzania, Burundi, Rwanda, Malawi and Democratic Republic of Congo. Our UK staff
CEO Revd Dave Stedman
Dave worked in the print, publishing and marketing industry for several years before training for Baptist ministry at Spurgeon’s College. Whilst minister of Canterbury Baptist Church, Dave served APF as a trustee for APF until taking up the newly created CEO position in January 2015. He is married to Cyra and they have three grown up children.Contact Dave
Project Coordinator Geoff Holder
Geoff has a background in African development, firstly with a UK-Uganda school partnership charity, then in community development in Mozambique. In the UK, he has been involved in setting up a community hub at Canterbury Baptist Church. Geoff is currently studying a masters degree in Sustainable Development and is married to Christine, they have two children. Contact GeoffFinancial Coordinator Michelle Anderson
Michelle has been a primary school teacher and leader for most of her career and is also a special needs coordinator in a local Kent primary school. She has worked with charities in the UK and Africa and loves to travel, both at home and abroad.Contact Michelle
Our Patrons & Trustees
Our small UK staff team is supported by a board of trustees, patrons and volunteer supporters who provide guidance, manpower and expertise.
Our Patrons
Revd. David Kerrigan
General Secretary of BMS World Mission
Bishop Godfrey Sehaba
Bishop of Morogoro
Rt. Revd. Christopher Cocksworth
Bishop of Coventry
Rev Dr Michael Okwakol
President of the All-Africa Baptist Alliance
Our Trustees
|
Revd. John Martin Chair |
Mr John Chambers |
|
Revd. Richard Suffern |
Revd. Richard Tucker |
|
Revd. David Howard |
Miss Nelly Lukwo |
|
Revd. Andrew North |