Antony Chawagarira
Mbungo-The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) has reaffirmed its commitment to working with Government to promote peace, unity and national development following a successful Easter Conference that drew thousands of congregants to Mbungo Estates.
The annual gathering, held in Masvingo Province, was marked by colourful displays of worship, rhythmic dances and spirited songs that created an atmosphere of deep spiritual devotion. The event was attended by President Emmerson Mnangagwa who was Guest of Honour and several senior Government officials, reflecting the strong ties between the church and the State.
Delivering the keynote sermon, ZCC leader Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi highlighted the role of churches in fostering national unity and supporting development efforts, urging congregants to remain prayerful and committed to nation building.“Mathew 26 verse 41 says watch and pray, and as Churches we are watching and praying. We have witnessed developments implemented by the Government across the country, and we are grateful. As Churches, we do not compete with you, we do not withdraw from national matters though we anger you, we affirm what builds, we remain alert to what weakens it, and we remind leadership that authority is never owned, it is entrusted, and the people have done it,” said Bishop Mutendi.
Speaking at the same gathering, Ezra Chadzamira, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Masvingo, outlined key development programmes underway in the province and acknowledged the ZCC’s contributions in critical sectors.“This occasion continues to strengthen the bond between our Government and the religious communities, as they form the fabric of our great nation, Zimbabwe. In Masvingo, we recognise the work that ZCC is doing in contributing towards food security in our Province, building schools and health facilities,” said Chadzamira.
Also addressing the gathering, Minister of State for National Security, Lovemore Matuke, praised the longstanding partnership between Government and the church, describing it as key to community development.“Our relationship with this Church is very deep, and they participate in all our development programmes. We are looking forward to continue nurturing this relationship,” said Matuke.
The overwhelming turnout at this year’s Easter Conference underscored the continued growth and influence of the ZCC, while reinforcing its role as a key stakeholder in fostering unity, development and socio-economic transformation in Zimbabwe.
