By Rev. Gaborone P. Lesito, TCR Field Representative 19th Episcopal District
Lay Organisation leaders from across Africa and some from the USA gathered with purpose and momentum as the Lay Organisation Africa Development Initiative (LOADI) convened business sessions that felt less like routine meetings and more like a collective turning point. Within the fellowship of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, the tone was unmistakable: African lay leadership is stepping forward with clarity, responsibility, and vision.
The opening legislative dialogue set the stage. The outgoing LOADI President, Sis. Liberta Mutambo challenged delegates to consider the limited flow of constitutional amendments from African districts in recent years. What followed was an energetic exchange about preparation, intentional participation, and the importance of reform that keeps pace with technology, youth engagement, and institutional continuity. Delegates affirmed that governance is not separate from ministry — it is a vital expression of stewardship.
The focus then shifted to strengthening relationships within the church. A session on conflict management emphasized that unity requires active leadership — identifying root causes, addressing tensions constructively, and cultivating a culture of accountability. Delegates engaged in the discussion with honesty, recognizing that healthy structures support an effective mission.
Capacity building expanded the conversation outward. Leaders explored how African lay structures can grow through shared learning while developing strategies suited to their context. The presence of episcopal leadership — including Bishop Wilfred Jacobus Messiah, Senior Bishop of the AME Church, Bishop Paul Jones Mulenga Kawimbe, and Bishop Gregory V. Eason — signaled strong support for lay empowerment. Momentum continued with a young adult forum where emerging leaders spoke with confidence about mentorship, spiritual leadership, and their commitment to advancing the church’s mission.
Anticipation rose as delegates reflected on preparations for the upcoming 40th Biennial Convention of the Connectional Lay Organization in South Africa — a historic milestone marking the first gathering of its scale outside the United States. The excitement represented more than logistics; it symbolized Africa’s expanding leadership voice within the global connection.
Strategic planning discussions added depth, outlining priorities for the coming decade that include economic empowerment, youth and skills development, education, and social resilience. These conversations reflected a church attentive to both spiritual calling and community realities.
A defining moment of the gathering came with the installation of the newly elected LOADI executive for the 2026–2028 term. Presided over by CLO President Bro. Am Makiti, the ceremony affirmed continuity and renewed commitment. The installed officers are:
Chair: Bro. Shaun Sipopa (20th District)
Vice Chair: Sis. Florence Karakubis (18th District)
Secretary: Sis. Malefu Kareli (19th District)
Assistant Secretary: Bro. Decent Ngwenya (20th District)
As these leaders accepted their responsibilities, the atmosphere reflected confidence in a shared future — one shaped by collaboration, disciplined governance, and faithful service.
Taken together, the LOADI sessions told a compelling story: African lay leaders are aligning vision, structure, and action to meet the evolving mission of the church. With new leadership installed and historic milestones ahead, the movement forward is intentional, hopeful, and grounded in purpose.
