Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division Leaders Emphasize Unity and Mission

The Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division (SID) Leadership Summit concluded on February 12 under the theme “Ambassadors of Christ: Integrated for Mission,” bringing together delegates from across the region for spiritual renewal, fellowship, and intentional planning for the next five years of service. More than a routine gathering, the summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, provided a meaningful space in which leaders were refreshed, encouraged, and equipped with practical insights to strengthen mission across the division.

Promoting OneVoice27

Among the presenters, General Conference (GC) Communication director Alyssa Truman and associate director Samuel Gil Soldevila underscored the importance of the global OneVoice27 initiative, a coordinated evangelistic emphasis uniting the worldwide church in sharing one Christ-centered message through media and personal outreach. SID president Harrington Akombwa affirmed its relevance, saying, “OneVoice27 calls the Southern Africa-Indian Ocean Division to unite in mission, proclaim Christ with clarity and power, and faithfully finish the work of God together.”

Within this initiative, the SID Communication Department and media centers were recognized as vital mission partners, helping ensure that the church’s message remains clear, unified, and effective across cultures and platforms. SID Communication and SIDmedia director Pako Mokgwane described the initiative as “timely and necessary, calling members to speak with one voice, share hope clearly, and use digital platforms intentionally to amplify God’s mission.”

SID Personal Ministries director Dennis Matekenya added that “unity of purpose, clarity of message, and shared commitment will be key catalysts for mission,” creating space for broad participation across the territory.

Leading With Humility

GC vice president Robert Osei Bonsu urged leaders to lead with kingdom authority and servant humility, reminding them that Adventist leadership is grounded not in status but in transformed hearts, humble dependence on God, and faithful obedience. “The church needs leaders who are spiritually grounded, Christlike in character, and committed to serving with integrity, love, and courage while leaving results in God’s hands,” he said.

Building on this leadership emphasis, Matekenya challenged delegates with two questions: What does the next generation expect from its leaders, and what does the Adventist mission require of them? He noted that addressing leadership blind spots is essential for faithful service and effective mission. When leaders fail to model Christlike character, credibility weakens, the church’s witness suffers, and the body of Christ is affected spiritually and relationally, Matekenya explained. “The future of leadership, he said, calls for unity of purpose, clear mission focus, unwavering loyalty to Scripture, and integrity and accountability that are nonnegotiable,” he said.

Measurable Goals and Collaboration

As the summit concluded, SID department directors presented their five-year strategic plans, aligning vision, strategy, and accountability across ministries while publicly committing to measurable goals. SID chief financial officer Hopekings Ngomba underscored the importance of financial integrity. “A movement entrusted with proclaiming God’s judgment must itself withstand careful scrutiny,” he said, adding, “One day we will stand before a higher audit. May we hear the words ‘Well done, good and faithful servant.’ ”

In closing, SID executive secretary Gideon Reyneke reflected on a statement made during the 1975 General Conference Session, when Robert H. Pierson expressed the hope that by the next session God’s people would be in heaven. Decades later, Reyneke observed, similar sentiments still prompt reflection on whether the church has fully embraced the unity God desires. “Let’s move beyond siloed efforts and personal recognition,” Reyneke said as he called for renewed vision, shared purpose, and collective commitment to advancing God’s work together.