By Baraka John
The Sustainable Initiative for the Future Kinasidu Africa (SIFA), the investment and development arm of the Catholic Diocese of Tombura-Yambio (CDTY), officially welcomed its newly appointed Chief Executive Officer, Hon. Joseph Tindiri, during a brief ceremony held in Curia on Wednesday, November 26, 2025.
Hon. Tindiri assumes office following his appointment on 29 September 2025 by Bishop Eduardo Hiiboro, marking a renewed chapter for the diocesan investment wing once known as DIDA. The restructuring and revival of SIFA aims to strengthen the Diocese’s pursuit of long-term sustainability and economic independence.
According to the appointment letter, SIFA is now instituted as the official diocesan arm for investment, economic empowerment, and integral human development, mandated to generate sustainable income to support pastoral programs, social services, and the Diocese’s long-term self-reliance.
As Executive Director and CEO, Tindiri is tasked with providing strategic and visionary leadership, ensuring all projects and investments are ethically grounded, professionally executed, and socially responsible. His responsibilities include coordinating development programs aligned with the mission of the Diocese and the values of the Gospel, and promoting transparency, accountability, and prudent stewardship of diocesan resources.
The appointment, reflects the Diocese’s commitment to building a self-sustaining future rooted in Catholic social teaching, especially the call for economic justice and holistic human development.
Speaking during the ceremony, Rev. Charles Mbikoyo, Director of CODEP, praised the renewed vigor SIFA brings to the Diocese’s development agenda.
“For our diocese, the pillars have been passing through challenges,” he said. “But CODEP has been struggling day and night to see that the Diocese stands. Now you have come to strengthen the pillar — its support to the Diocese. And you are going to do more than this as long as we continue to collaborate with you and support you.”
In his acceptance remarks, Hon. Joseph Tindiri expressed humility and gratitude for the trust placed in him.
“In Jesus’ name, I stand humbly to accept the appointment of my Lord Bishop to come and serve in the Diocese so that it can prosper in the future,” he stated. “When you start any investment, you must meet your business plan. I am not saying I am better than those who have served before me; I am only here to build on the foundations they laid.”
Tindiri assured the Diocese of his commitment to work closely with stakeholders, clergy, and development partners to achieve the institution’s goals.
Also addressing the gathering, Rev. Thomas Bagbiowia, the Vicar General of the Diocese, reaffirmed the Church’s collaboration with SIFA, emphasizing that unity and coordination are essential for the success of diocesan investment initiatives.
The Catholic Diocese of Tombura Yambio hopes to advance projects that will secure financial stability, enhance social services, and strengthen the pastoral mission for years to come.
