Rev. Albert Eberhardt Biwa, P.E. 

Rev. Albert Eberhardt Biwa, a fourth-generation preacher, traces his lineage to Evangelist Zacharias Biwa, who left the Rhinish Mission Church due to its segregation policies limiting black education and ordination. Raised in a devout household by Rev. Dr. Andreas and Sophia Biwa, Rev. Biwa pursued higher education, earning a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Chemistry from the University of Namibia in 1993, followed by a Post Graduate Diploma in Education in 1998. His calling to ministry emerged in 1994 while serving as a Lay Preacher and Steward at Ebenezer AME Church in Windhoek. Rev. Biwa’s ecclesiastical journey began when he was ordained as an Itinerant Deacon in 1996 and as an Elder in 1998 by Bishop Haroldt Ben Senatle. His theological education continued, earning a Bachelor of Theology Honours in 2014 and a Master of Theology in 2020 from the University of South Africa, with ongoing doctoral studies. His path honors his family's legacy of breaking racial barriers in religious leadership and emphasizes the importance of both spiritual and academic pursuits in his journey.

Rev. Biwa's ministry spans both rural and urban communities across Namibia, serving various AME churches where he led church building, expansion, and renovation projects. As Presiding Elder, he oversaw four districts, focusing on preacher training and church development. His influence extended beyond local ministry; he co-authored legislation establishing the Africa Jurisdictional Council and advocated for its objectives, which evolved into the Global Development Council (GDC). His leadership roles include serving as treasurer of the 15th Episcopal District, representing the church on the GDC, serving on several General Conference committees such as the Rules Committee in 2004 and as 2nd Vice Chairperson in 2008, serving on the Revisions Committee in 2012, and on the Statistics and Finance Committee from 2005 to 2016.

Rev. Biwa's career demonstrates a commitment to spiritual growth, education, and organizational development within the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Rev. Biwa's career showcases a remarkable blend of spiritual leadership and public service. Starting as a mathematics and science teacher in 1994, he quickly advanced to Chief of Research and Development in the Directorate of Science and Technology by 1996. He has served the Namibian government in various capacities including as the Deputy Director of Social Welfare, the acting Permanent Secretary who launched the Ministry of Poverty Eradication and Social Welfare, and presently, the acting Director for Social Protection Services, demonstrating his commitment to societal betterment. His expertise has been further recognized through board directorships at the Social Security Commission of Namibia, the Namibia Institute of Pathology, and Namibia’s first War Veterans Subvention.

Complementing his professional achievements is a strong family life. Rev. Biwa is married to Magrietha Biwa, a competent, talented, and well-read partner who supports him in his mission. Together, they have five children: Donavon, Andrea, Sophia, Amy, and Albert Eberhardt II.

Rev. Biwa is renowned for his multifaceted character: a visionary leader, dedicated pastor, gifted crusader, skilled craftsman, and exceptional preacher. His reputation as an empathetic individual and caring father rounds out a portrait of a man deeply committed to his faith, family, and community.