Most Worshipful Brother Cleophas Amin: A Journey of Dedication, Leadership, and Service

Born in the heart of East Africa, Cleophas Amin grew up in a family where values of integrity, service, and brotherhood were deeply ingrained. His grandfather, a respected member of the Masonic community in their homeland, was the first to introduce him to the Fraternity. Cleophas’ upbringing, surrounded by stories of Masonic dedication and community service, fostered an early understanding of the importance of fraternity and personal growth. His parents, both educators, emphasized the value of knowledge, discipline, and character development.

Cleophas’ academic path took him to one of Africa’s top universities, where he excelled in his studies and became a leader within the student body. He earned a degree in Environmental Science, reflecting his passion for preserving the natural world, a cause that would later become a central element of his Masonic contributions. Cleophas was not only a brilliant student but also an advocate for social change, actively participating in community outreach programs that helped marginalized groups gain access to education and resources.

In 2005, Cleophas was introduced to the United Grand Lodge of Africa (UGLA) through a close family friend who had been a member for many years. Recognizing his potential and alignment with Masonic principles, the Lodge welcomed him into their brotherhood. Like many Freemasons, Cleophas embarked on the journey of self-improvement through the three foundational degrees: Entered Apprentice, Fellow Craft, and Master Mason.

The Entered Apprentice degree was Cleophas’ first formal step into Freemasonry, marking his commitment to moral development and brotherhood. His Lodge, a small yet strong community, embraced him with open arms, offering guidance, support, and a sense of belonging. Through his personal dedication, Cleophas soon earned the title of Fellow Craft, gaining a deeper understanding of the Fraternity’s philosophies and expanding his role within the Lodge.

His progression through the Masonic degrees reflected his own personal growth—symbolizing the passage from youth, through manhood, to the wisdom of age. But Cleophas was not content with merely learning for himself. He believed that Freemasonry’s true power lay in service to others, a belief that guided him through every aspect of his Masonic journey.

By 2013, Cleophas had already assumed leadership roles within the Lodge. He served as Worshipful Master of his home Lodge, where his leadership was characterized by a focus on charity, education, and fellowship. His efforts to revitalize the Lodge’s community outreach programs earned him widespread respect, not just among his fellow Masons, but within his broader community as well.

Cleophas’ work did not go unnoticed. His active involvement in promoting sustainable development, particularly in rural African communities, made him a celebrated figure both inside and outside the Masonic world. His contributions to the local community earned him the prestigious Community Builders Award, recognizing his dedication to improving the lives of others.

As he rose through the ranks, Cleophas became involved with the larger workings of the United Grand Lodge of Africa (UGLA). His leadership skills were quickly recognized, and in 2020, he was appointed District Deputy Grand Master, where he worked tirelessly to expand the reach of Freemasonry in rural and underserved areas. His focus on educational initiatives, particularly for young Masons, ensured that the traditions and principles of the Craft were passed on to the next generation.

In 2024, Cleophas Amin’s journey came full circle when he was elected Grand Master of the United Grand Lodge of Africa. As Grand Master, he became a champion of several initiatives, focusing on the integration of Freemasonry into local communities across Africa. He promoted a vision of Freemasonry that not only cultivated moral character but also embraced the diverse cultures and traditions of the African continent. Cleophas’ leadership emphasized unity, the building of strong, ethical communities, and the cultivation of personal growth.

Under his guidance, UGLA launched programs aimed at promoting youth leadership, particularly in areas with limited access to education and resources. His Grand Master’s Medal of Honor was awarded to numerous Masons who had contributed selflessly to the upliftment of their communities.

Cleophas, always humble in his achievements, was also known for his love of fellowship. He enjoyed motorcycling through the scenic landscapes of Africa, hiking in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro, and sharing stories around a campfire with his fellow Masons. Cleophas’ warmth, wisdom, and commitment to the principles of Freemasonry made him a beloved figure, not only as a Grand Master but as a true beacon of Masonic ideals.

As his term as Grand Master came to an end, Cleophas left a legacy of unity, service, and brotherhood. His efforts to strengthen the Fraternity across Africa, while preserving the essential values of Freemasonry, ensured that his impact would be felt for generations to come. His life exemplified the true spirit of Freemasonry: a commitment to personal growth, a dedication to service, and an unwavering belief in the power of brotherhood to shape a better world.

Cleophas Amin’s journey in Freemasonry is a testament to the enduring power of tradition and the transformative impact of service. He continues to inspire Masons across the globe, showing that through perseverance, dedication, and a true desire to help others, one can embody the highest ideals of Freemasonry.