By Sahr Ibrahim Komba
The Diocesan Men’s Union (DMU) has unanimously re-elected Donald Theo-Harding as its President for the 2024/2025 administrative year, marking his second consecutive term. This makes Theo-Harding the 18th President of the Union. The election took place on September 28, 2024, at Beckles Davies Hall, Cathedral House, in Freetown.
In his address, President Donald Theo-Harding expressed deep gratitude to his executive team for their efforts in successfully overseeing various thanksgiving services and activities across the union’s branches. “Although the journey has not been easy, especially during these challenging economic times, the steadfast love of the Lord never ceases,” he remarked.
Under Theo-Harding’s leadership, the Union has seen notable growth in spiritual activities, thanks in part to the efforts of priests and the Union’s chaplain in organizing spiritual retreats, prayer sessions, and breakfast meetings. However, he voiced concern about a decline in in-person attendance at these events, but remained hopeful for a revival of interest among members.
Throughout the year, the DMU engaged in a series of key activities, including Thanksgiving Services, the Annual Nine Lessons and Carols, an Annual Outing, the Lent Service, visitations to the Anglican Bishop of Freetown and The North, and outreach to the less privileged. Theo-Harding praised the consistent hosting of monthly and executive meetings by various branches, highlighting their invaluable contributions.
He also shared that the Union had reviewed its constitution, proposing several amendments. Among the key changes were Article 8, which mandates that each church forms a DMU branch; Article 12, establishing the financial year from August 1 to July 31; and Article 13, which suggests removing the roles of Auditor 1 and Auditor 2 from the executive.
In a major development, the Union has been gifted a plot of land in Lakka, where it plans to construct a multi-purpose complex. Membership dues remain the Union’s primary source of income, and they successfully raised NLe 100,000 during the “Man of the Year” competition.
Theo-Harding also acknowledged the challenges faced in maintaining order within the DMU’s WhatsApp group, citing frequent misuse of social media, which has led to discord among members. He urged all members to show mutual respect as brothers in Christ, emphasizing the need for unity within the group.
In closing, Theo-Harding expressed his heartfelt appreciation to all members for their unwavering support, which has enabled the Union to grow and induct more members.
Other executive members are
Prince R. Macauley – Vice President 1
Benjamin O’Connor – Vice President 2
Emile Williams – Secretary
Erubamie Johnson – Assistant Secretary
Raymond Sawyerr – Treasurer
Franklyn Claye – Assistant Treasurer
Lloyd Dridged – Public Relations Officer
Emmanuel Kobba – Assistant Public Relations Officer
Christian Wells – Social & Organizing Secretary
Prince Charles – Assistant Social & Organizing Secretary
Rev Lawrence Davies – Priest Chaplain
Emile Davies – Lay Chaplain
Alex Amado-Taylor – Welfare Officer West 1
Christian Martyn – Welfare Officer East 2
Brian Whenzle – Auditor 1
Junisa Kallon – Auditor 2
