Story by Kenias Chivuzhe
GOVERNMENT has underscored the importance of collaboration with the church in promoting national development while reaffirming its commitment to protecting freedom of worship.
The remarks were made by Vice President General (Retired) Dr Constantino Chiwenga, who was represented by the Minister of State for Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, during the commissioning of the Anglican Church of the Province of Zimbabwe’s St Raphael Anglican Church in Manyere Village, Seke District.
In a speech read on his behalf, Vice President Chiwenga said the completion of the church complex reflects faith, unity, commitment and the spirit of self-reliance within communities.
“The completion of this church complex is a testimony of faith, unity, commitment and the spirit of self-reliance that continues to define our communities. The construction of the sanctuary, the priest’s residence, ablution facilities, a crèche and a borehole with a water purification plant demonstrates the broader role the Church plays in society.
“I wish to commend the Manyere Foundation for its generosity and commitment towards the construction of this important facility. The development of St Raphael Anglican Church is a clear demonstration that the journey towards Vision 2030 requires the participation of all sectors of society. Government alone cannot achieve national development. We require the partnership of churches, traditional leaders, communities, the private sector and development organisations.
“The Church has always been an important partner in Zimbabwe’s development journey. Beyond spiritual guidance, churches have contributed significantly to education, healthcare, humanitarian assistance, moral development and community empowerment,” he said.
Anglican Church of the Province of Zimbabwe Archbishop Dr Nolbert Kunonga thanked the Manyere Foundation for funding the construction of the church, saying the Manyere family also supported freedom fighters during the liberation struggle.
“The construction of this church by the Manyere Foundation is a noble development. This is why I agreed that the church be named after the family as part of the indigenous church philosophy. Mr Manyere supported freedom fighters during the liberation struggle and provided vehicles for that cause. We share the same philosophy with the government and Vice President Chiwenga, and we hope the book documenting these shared experiences will be published,” he said.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding freedom of worship and encouraged churches to continue partnering with the state in education, youth empowerment, healthcare, skills development and community development programmes.
