Story by Gay Matambo
A partnership between Government institutions and the Johane the 5th of Africa International Church is advancing efforts to equip communities with financial literacy and entrepreneurship skills, as part of broader plans to build human capital and accelerate progress towards an upper middle-income economy by 2030.
The initiative, launched in Mutare on Monday in collaboration with the Zimbabwe Women’s Microfinance Bank, brought together more than 100 church members from Zimbabwe, South Africa, Zambia and Mozambique for a five-day intensive training programme.
Participants underwent practical training in financial literacy and entrepreneurship, equipping them to manage community-based projects and expand income-generating activities in their respective areas.
“I used to wait for opportunities to find me, but this programme taught me how to create them. I am leaving here not just with a certificate, but with the practical skills to start my own business and support my family. I thank the church for showing us that faith and hard work go hand-in-hand.
“Being part of this initiative has restored my dignity. I never thought I would have the chance to learn modern entrepreneurship skills that actually pay off. I am grateful to the church and the government for bringing these skills to our community and giving us a real seat at the table of our nation’s economy.
“This training has been a total life-changer. Before, I felt left behind, but now I have the tools to compete and innovate in the SMEs sector. I want to thank the leadership for believing in us,” beneficiaries said.
Beyond skills transfer, the programme seeks to position religious platforms as centres of economic activity and community transformation.
Founder of the church, Archbishop Dr Andby Makururu, said the initiative aligns faith-based work with national development priorities.
“The church and the state are one in the goal of development. We fully support President Dr Mnangagwa’s Vision 2030 because nyika inovakwa nevene vayo. Our human capital programme in Mutare ensures that no one is left behind as we transition into the next phase of our National Development Strategy,” he said.
Government officials have also underscored the importance of such partnerships in strengthening the small-to-medium enterprise sector.
“The Ministry commends Johane the 5th of Africa International Church for transforming the church into a centre for economic activity. By equipping its leaders, especially women and the youth, with SME management skills and financial literacy, you are directly contributing to the goal of a US$12 billion economy and ensuring that our communities are no longer bystanders but active drivers of industrialisation,” said Manicaland Provincial Head in the Ministry of Women Affairs, Community, Small to Medium Enterprises Development,Mr Gabriel Jaji.
The programme aligns with the Education 5.0 model and National Development Strategy Two, positioning communities as active participants in innovation, enterprise development and inclusive economic growth.
