Story by Mercy Bofu-Matinha
THE Government has urged churches across the country to take a leading role in fostering unity, peace and moral integrity, while also supporting development programmes aimed at improving communities and livelihoods.
Speaking at the End Time Message Church General Convention in Mashava, Masvingo, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, said the church remains a key partner in shaping social values and supporting Zimbabwe’s development trajectory towards an upper middle-income society by 2030.
“Our government recognises the church’s role in ensuring peace and unity, hence, we encourage you to continue preaching freely. As we move towards achieving an upper middle-income economy by the year 2030, we call upon churches to be part of this journey through prayers and their participation in programmes that empower them,” he said.
The Special Advisor to the President and senior member of the church, Dr Paul Tungwarara, emphasised that love remains a fundamental pillar of nation-building.
“As a church and as a country, we can only grow and develop when we love one another. Churches have a role to play in uniting people, encouraging them to work hard and adopt good morals, while preaching love and peace,” he noted.
Church leader, Apostle Godwin Chitsinde, reaffirmed the church’s commitment to supporting development initiatives, including education and agriculture.
“We appreciate what our government is doing for churches. We support programmes that ensure improved livelihoods for our people, including the building of schools and agriculture development,” he added.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has repeatedly underscored the symbiotic relationship between the State and the Church, noting that both institutions have a shared responsibility in moulding a morally upright and united nation.
