Story by Bruce Chahwanda, Political Editor
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa has urged Zimbabweans to reject division and discord, calling instead for national unity as a cornerstone for sustainable social and economic development.
His remarks were delivered on Sunday by Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Honourable Daniel Garwe, during the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) Easter Service at Mbungo Estate in Masvingo Province.
The Easter celebration attracted thousands of local and international congregants who converged for the annual Christian gathering, marked by vibrant spiritual displays and community festivities.
In his address, the President emphasised the pivotal role of peace and unity, not only in Zimbabwe but throughout the SADC region and beyond.
“One people, one Zimbabwe.” Nothing and no one must be allowed to sow seeds of division and disunity or confusion among us. The bible in the book of John 13 verse 34 reads “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.”We are instructed to love one another, even as Jesus loved us. We pray for peace to prevail in our SADC region and throughout our continent and the world, where people are experiencing conflict, displacement, insecurity and instability,” he said.
The need for the nation to uphold unity to foster social economic development was emphasised.
“Unity among God’s people, where individuals or groups come together with a shared purpose and common goals, is a powerful force. It strengthens our collective will and transforms groups of individuals into engine rooms of greater success and development, within families, communities and the nation as a whole.
“Let us, therefore, pursue unity that knows no boundaries, religion, tribe, race, colour, age or geography. When we are united at every level, Jesus, according to Matthew 18 verse 19: says, ‘if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.
“I urge the nation and Church in particular to recognise and harness the individual and collective capacities we have to propel the socio-economic development, modernisation and industrialisation of our country, through demonstrating unfailing love for our beloved motherland, Zimbabwe,” he said.
Congregates were reminded to take a leaf from the book of Matthew which emphasises the importance of love, unity and forgiveness.
“Easter is not only a celebration of Christ’s victory over death, but a constant reminder of the call to be peacemakers. Unity, love and forgiveness are powerful instruments which break down all barriers. In the book of Matthew, Chapter 5, verse 9, the Bible says,“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God.” This highlights that it is critically important for our lives to reflect God’s character that is pleasing to Him.
“Further, let us strive to create communities where peace and unity flourish, through love and forgiveness. This message must saturate our everyday interactions at all levels. Through the victory of the Lord Jesus Christ, on the cross; at the household and family level, in our workplaces, and communities, let us practice kindness mindful of the fact that every act of love and forgiveness is a step towards consolidating our national peace and unity,” he said.
The Easter Conference was punctuated by displays by congregants, schools and the elderly.
His Grace Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi’s dances, captivated thousands who gathered at the Mbungo Estate in Masvingo, to celebrate one of the important events on the Christian calendar.
