Since 1875, the English Freemasons have been a quiet but steady force of philanthropy in the Northern Cape, says Philip Kruger, president of the board for the Central District.
Their latest mission is to increase their transparency and community engagement.
“While many residents pass the Kimberley Masonic Centre on Du Toitspan Road daily, few realise the extent of the charity work occurring behind its doors, work that is now being shared more openly with the public.
“We are involved in charity because we are Freemasons,” says Kruger. “It flows naturally from the nature of our principles. Respect for others and our integrity as brothers demands it of us”.
Operating under the United Grand Lodge of England (UGLE), English Freemasonry is founded on four key pillars: Integrity, Friendship, Respect, and Service. For the members of the Central District, led by District Grand Master Peet Louw, charity is not just an activity but an “uncompromisable focus”.
Several projects completed
This past year has seen a flurry of activity across the region, from Mafikeng to Postmasburg. Rejecting the idea that charity is only about financial donations, the “Brethren” have focused on “sweat equity” and personal presence.
Highlights of their 2025 initiatives include projects like infrastructure repairs. Members performed roof repairs, storm-water management, and painting at various facilities.
A wheelchair was donated to a stroke patient in Mafikeng by the Austral Lodge. Stella Lodge and the Central District renovated three bathrooms at the Belgrave Lodge retirement home. Lodges across Mafikeng, Kuruman, Kimberley, and Postmasburg conducted visits and hosted Christmas lunches at local old age homes. A tug-of-war day was held in collaboration with CANSA to raise funds for breast cancer research.
The district also ventured into the arts through a collaboration with the William Humphreys Art Gallery in Kimberley. A plain wall at the District’s property was transformed into a mural valued at R30 000. Themed “Kindness is Contagious,” the artwork serves as a public reminder of the power of small, sincere acts.
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The mural was created by renowned Johannesburg-based street artist Themba Dreda Malaza. Malaza, founder of Mzantsi Street Exhibits and artist behind the iconic Soweto Towers, was assisted by artist Marcia Majavu. The artwork serves as a permanent symbol of how small, sincere acts can have far-reaching effects on a community.
Hosting series of open evenings
Looking toward 2026, Kruger says the Freemasons plan to be even more visible.
“The District will host a series of open evenings at their Du Toitspan Road building, inviting the public to learn more about their history and work. These sessions will also feature guest speakers on vital community health topics, including prostate cancer, men’s mental health, and diabetes.
Additionally, the District plans to introduce music evenings at nursing homes to provide companionship to the elderly and will hold a formal District Remembrance Day on 11 November to honour those who have served their country.
Write to Kruger on presdbogp@dglsacentral.org.za for more information.
