The District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, S. C.

22/02/2026

On the morning of Wednesday 11 February 2026, the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Scottish Constitution convened a fraternal seminar that stood as a testament to unity, reflection, and purposeful growth. The gathering welcomed Masons from all Constitutions , a beautiful expression of universality, tolerance, and brotherly harmony.

The session was ably moderated by Bro Albert Ojo Collier, PM, who guided the Brethren through a thoughtful and strategic SWOT Analysis of Scottish Freemasonry in The Gambia, with particular emphasis on Lodge administration, governance, sustainability, and growth. What followed was not merely discussion, it was a sincere heart-to-heart engagement. Concerns were openly shared, perspectives respectfully exchanged, and constructive pathways identified. In true Masonic fashion, rough edges were smoothed, and clarity emerged from candour.

Sierra Leone and The Gambia are more than neighbouring lands; we are fraternal companions bound by shared heritage, common history, and sacred obligations. This spirit of unity was reaffirmed by the Right Worshipful District Grand Master, Bro. The Hon. Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke, PM, who assured the Brethren that the District Secretariat remains steadfast in its commitment to strengthening and supporting Scottish Freemasonry in The Gambia, ensuring that it not only survives, but flourishes.

A particularly impactful segment of the seminar was delivered by Bro. Dr. Chigozie Michael Nwalozie, whose presentation on Men’s Health, Leadership, and Longevity resonated deeply with the assembly. He reminded us that to build strong Lodges, we must first build strong men. By raising awareness on preventable conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, he encouraged Brethren to prioritise wellness, discipline, and balance pillars as vital in life as they are in Masonry.

The seminar was a living demonstration of our sacred tenets Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Through dialogue, education, and mutual support, we strengthened not only our institutions but ourselves.

May the cement of Brotherly Love continue to unite us, and may our collective labours contribute to the enduring prosperity of Scottish Freemasonry in both Sierra Leone and The Gambia.

21/02/2026

On Tuesday, 10th February 2026, history was written within the sacred walls of Lodge St. Mary’s 1711 SC, in The Gambia, when the Mark Master Mason Degree was solemnly and beautifully conferred.

This was no ordinary convocation. It marked a truly historic milestone for the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Scottish Constitution, as such a working had not taken place in The Gambia for approximately three decades. To witness its revival was to see the rekindling of light long awaited.

The Mark Degree is regarded by many as one of the most profound and meaningful in the Masonic journey. Rich in symbolism and practical in its moral instruction, it stands as a natural and powerful continuation of the Fellow Craft Degree. It teaches lessons of:
• Personal responsibility
• Integrity in workmanship
• Honesty and accountability
• The dignity of labour and the value of being properly marked

It reminds every Mason that though a stone may be rejected by some, its true worth is revealed in due time — and that each man must place his mark upon his work with honour.

The ceremony was presided over with dignity and excellence by Bro. Vidal Hastings-Spaine, PM, who served as Presiding Mark Master. He was ably supported by a distinguished team of officers:
• Bro. Victor Hastings-Spaine PM
• Bro. Aladi Lisk PM
• Bro. Dr. Momodu Jasseh PM
• Bro. Hansel Oprah Mags-King PM
• Bro. Walter Nicol PM
• Bro. Frank Nicol PM
• Bro. Adewale Showers PM
. Bro Arthur Kobina Ben-Carew PM
. Bro Balla Kamara PM

Their dedication and precision in ritual ensured that the ancient landmarks were upheld and that the candidates experienced the full beauty and solemnity of the Degree.

The brethren upon whom the Mark Master Mason Degree was conferred were:

From Lodge St. Mary’s 1711 SC
• Bro. Desmond Walter Oluwole Johnson, PM
• Bro. Alfred Donaldson Thorpe, PM
• Bro. Rt. Rev. Dr. Eric Cyril Odewale Jones, PM
• Bro. Dr. Chigozie Michael Nwalozie
• Bro. James Patrick Kenyinmoh
• Bro. Coxy Paps Allen

From Lodge Tranquility 1446 SC
• Bro. Alfred Palo Conteh

This memorable occasion was not merely the conferment of a Degree; it was the reaffirmation of our enduring principles, Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. It demonstrated that the light of Scottish Freemasonry continues to shine brightly across our District, uniting brethren across borders in shared labour and moral purpose.

May those newly advanced always remember the lessons of the Mark:
That excellence in labour brings honour, that faithfulness in small things builds greatness, and that every Mason must leave behind a mark worthy of remembrance

18/02/2026

On Tuesday, 10th February 2026, the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Scottish Constitution, embarked upon a meaningful visit to the Tanka Tanka Psychiatric Hospital, situated along Miniru Savage Road in Banjul, The Gambia.

Tanka Tanka stands as a government-subsidized institution dedicated to providing psychiatric care and treatment to individuals facing mental health challenges. In a world where such struggles are often misunderstood or overlooked, this institution serves as a sanctuary of compassion, healing, and hope.

Freemasonry is founded upon the enduring principles of Brotherly Love, Relief, and Truth. Of these, Relief calls us not merely to sympathy, but to action to stretch forth our hands where there is need, to uplift where there is despair, and to stand in quiet solidarity with the vulnerable.

Guided by these sacred tenets, the District presented a donation of US$500 to the hospital in support of its ongoing work. Though modest in measure, it was given with sincere hearts and a firm commitment to the Masonic charge: that we must ever seek to alleviate suffering and contribute meaningfully to the welfare of humanity.

May this act of charity serve as a reminder that the true strength of our Craft is revealed not within tiled walls alone, but in the compassion we demonstrate beyond them.

18/02/2026

District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia SC meaningful visit to the Tanka Tank Psychiatric Hospital, situated along Miniru Savage Road in Banjul, The Gambia

18/02/2026

On Sunday, 15th February 2026, the brethren of the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, Scottish Constitution brought to a dignified close a week-long celebration of Scottish Freemasonry in The Gambia with a solemn Thanksgiving Service at Christ Church, Banjul.

During the divine service, the sermon was delivered by Rev. Fr. Ishmael O. W. Thomas, who expounded upon Matthew 17:5 the sacred moment of the Transfiguration:

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”

His message reminded us that, as Masons, we are called not merely to assemble in fellowship, but to listen , to truth, to wisdom, and to the Great Architect’s guiding voice in our daily conduct.

Thereafter, brethren, distinguished guests, non-Masons, and ladies gathered in harmony at Charles Albert Hall for fraternal fellowship over lunch, strengthening the bonds of unity that transcend constitution and country.

A cornerstone of our noble Order is Charity. In that enduring spirit, the District raised USD $5,200 through collections and pledges, which shall be presented to the Church a testament that our principles are not words alone, but works made manifest.

May the light kindled during this week continue to burn brightly in our hearts.

17/02/2026

Sunday 15 February 2026

Sermon Theme:
“This is My beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased; listen to Him.”
— Matthew 17:5

Preacher:
Rev. Fr. Ishmael O. W. Thomas

Venue:
Christ Church, Banjul, The Gambia

The message, rooted in the account of the Transfiguration, called upon all present to cultivate obedience, humility, and attentive hearts — virtues that resonate deeply within the Craft. It served as a fitting spiritual culmination to a week dedicated to fellowship, reflection, and the enduring principles of Scottish Freemasonry.

25/12/2025

18/11/2025

The District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, SC, under the distinguished and newly inaugurated leadership of the District Grand Master, Bro. The Hon. Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke, PM, convened its first Regular Communication on Saturday, 8 November 2025. This historic assembly was held in the culturally vibrant city of Makeni, in the Bombali District of Sierra Leone at Wusum Masonic Temple.

The Communication was conducted under the inspiring theme, “To Build a Temple.” In his inaugural address to the Brethren, the District Grand Master expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the overwhelming support, loyalty, and brotherly affection extended to him during his Installation in July 2025. He reminded the Craft that, as in ancient times, every great Masonic undertaking begins with a clear vision and the steady hands of dedicated craftsmen.

He therefore charged the Brethren with the principal labour of his tenure: the construction of a new Masonic Temple for Scottish Freemasonry in Sierra Leone and The Gambia. Ideally situated in Freetown, the proposed edifice will require a minimum of one acre of land, a symbolic and practical foundation upon which the next generation of Freemasons shall build.

The Communication was honoured by the presence of distinguished Brethren from sister Constitutions, including:

• Right Worshipful Master Emile Moses Charles Carr, District Grand Master of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, English Constitution;
• Right Worshipful Bro. Hussein Fawaz, Grand Inspector of the Irish Inspectorate; and
• Bro. Henry Herman Smith, PM, representative of the Royal Arch.

Their attendance embodied the spirit of harmony, unity, and mutual respect that characterises the wider Masonic family.

Following the Communication, the Brethren and guests retired to a formal luncheon featuring traditional local cuisine. The highlight of the afternoon was a stirring display of servant leadership by the District Grand Master himself, Bro. The Hon. Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke PM, assisted by his Depute, Bro. Centus Macauley, PM, and the Substitute District Grand Masters, Bro. The Hon. Justice Reginald Fynn, PM, Bro. Balla Kamara, PM, and Bro. Jonathan Thomas, PM. In true Masonic humility, they personally served the Brethren and guests, an eloquent reminder that leadership in Freemasonry is grounded not in titles, but in service.

After the luncheon, held in the open-air courtyard, the District Grand Master continued the day’s labours by honouring Brethren for their exemplary service to the Craft and to the District, cementing bonds of gratitude, fraternity, and commitment.

18/11/2025

The Procession of the District Grand Master of the District Grand Lodge of Sierra Leone and The Gambia, SC, Bro The Hon Justice Nicholas Colin Browne-Marke PM at the Regular Communication held on Saturday, 8 November 2025, at Wusum Lodge, Makeni, Sierra Leone.