As of January 2026, the Society of African Missions (SMA) counts 907 members worldwide, according to newly compiled international statistics. The data reveal a strong global presence, a membership dominated by permanent members, and a workforce primarily composed of priests, serving both within their Units of origin and abroad.

Strong Base of Permanent Members

Out of the 907 total members, 780 are permanent members, representing more than 85% of the overall members. Temporary members number 127, indicating a stable institutional structure built primarily on long-term commitment.

This high proportion of permanent members reflects strong vocation retention, essential for the continuity of the Society and the effective implementation of its mission.

Units with the Largest Membership

Membership is widely distributed across Europe, Africa, Asia, and the North America, with particularly strong representation in several countries, among others:

• Ireland: 111 members
• Nigeria: 108 members
• India: 76 members
• Togo: 72 members
• Ivory Coast: 65 members
• Ghana: 51 members
• Italy: 33 members
• Kenya: 28 members
• Poland: 24 members

African and Asian Units together account for a significant share of the total membership, underscoring the growing importance of these Units in the SMA’s global mission.

Priests Form the Core of Membership

The majority of members serve as priests, with approximately 734 priests worldwide. Other states include:

• Bishops: 9
• Brothers: 3
• Deacons: 34

These figures highlight that pastoral work remains the backbone of the SMA’s mission, ensuring direct engagement with local communities and long-term continuity in ministry.

Mobility and International Mission

The statistics reveal a significant level of international engagement, yet a majority of members continue to serve within their unit of origin:

• Working within their unit of origin: 419 members
• Working outside their unit of origin: 328 members

With most members remaining in their unit of origin, the proportion actively engaged in mission abroad is declining—an imbalance that may jeopardize the SMA’s mission ad gentes.

Formation and Future Growth

The presence of members in formation indicates continued growth and renewal:

There are 138 seminarians in theology and 315 members at other formation stages, totaling 453 students across all programs.

This substantial number of students reflects a healthy vocational system and suggests strong potential for future membership growth. It also places an important responsibility on the SMA to continue investing in quality formation, academic resources, and pastoral accompaniment to ensure well-prepared future priests.

Losses and Departure: A Limited but Significant Reality

The statistics record 18 deceased members and 1 member who departed from the society during the period under review.

While these numbers remain relatively low in comparison to the overall membership, they carry important meaning. The deceased members represent a legacy of service and dedication, reminding the SMA of the long-term commitment made by its members and the need to honor and preserve their contributions.

The single departure from the society suggests a high level of perseverance and vocational stability. At the same time, it highlights the importance of ongoing support, discernment, and accompaniment to help members navigate the challenges of religious and missionary life.

An International and Resilient Society

Overall, the January 2026 statistics portray an SMA that is international, stable, and mission-oriented. With a strong base of permanent members, a dominant priestly workforce, and a robust formation system with hundreds of students, the SMA appears well-positioned to sustain and expand its mission in the coming years.

Brice Ulrich AFFERI