Story by Fungai Jachi
THE family of the late Archbishop Paul Mwazha has expressed sincere appreciation to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for bestowing national hero status on the revered spiritual leader and founder of the African Apostolic Church of Africa.
Archbishop Mwazha passed away last Thursday at the age of 107, leaving behind a legacy of faith, unity, and leadership within the Christian community.
“On behalf of the family, we are really grateful to the President for affording Mutumwa Mwazha the highest honour in the land. We thank the President for recognising the investment that our father made, not just spiritually but politically as well. We are very grateful,” Family Spokesperson, Dr Masimba Mwazha said.
Christian leaders also hailed the conferment as a fitting tribute to a figure who transcended denominational boundaries.
“He taught us a lot of things, including humility. We shall ensure that his good works will not die with him. We shall continue with his legacy,” said Bishop Dr Gwatirera Javangwe of the African Apostolic Church.
“He was a man who saw beyond denominations. He taught us well as the Apostolic sect. He was a hero during his lifetime, and being given this honour by the state is even more gratifying,” said Madzibaba Terbnege Onwell Vengesa, Leader of Johanne Masowe eChishanu Graspa.
“It is a good thing that the contributions made by religious leaders continue to be honoured. We thank the President for giving Mutumwa this honour,” added Madzibaba Charles Zindenga, National Secretary of Masowe 4ED.
“This was a good man. A man who had great teachings, and we shall do everything to ensure his legacy lives on,” said Madzibaba Luxod Mutova of Johane Masowe Jerusarema.
Affectionately known as Mutumwa Mwazha, he becomes the third religious leader to receive the national hero designation, following Archbishop Ezekiel Guti of ZAOGA and Father Emmanuel Ribeiro of the Roman Catholic Church.
