Online Reporter
Patience Maturure
Herald Correspondent
Nearly 20 000 worshippers flocked to the National Sports Stadium at the weekend for the 2025 “Pure Worship!” international convention of Jehovah’s Witnesses, which concluded yesterday.
The three-day Bible education programme drew participants from 14 countries, with international visitors praising Zimbabwe’s hospitality.
Harare was one of 15 cities worldwide selected to host the event.
In at interview yesterday, Jehovah’s Witnesses spokesperson, Mr Kudakwashe Chikuvadze, expressed delight at the smooth conclusion of the event, highlighting the economic impact of the event.
“This is international in the sense that we have 14 countries coming and joining us. This convention attracted people from the United States, Europe and other African countries. And we are so happy because this conference is uniting cultures,” said Mr Chikuvadze.
The convention provided a significant boost to the local economy, with many hotels in Harare fully booked by international guests.
The transport sector reported brisk business, ferrying worshippers to and from the stadium.
“Most lodges and hotels are almost full in Harare,” said a Harare man.
“And they are also shopping, going around the city, going to recreational facilities, enjoying themselves”
A second convention is scheduled from September 5-7, and many international visitors are expected to extend their stay in Harare .
This upcoming event will feature a three-part drama series titled “The Good News according to Jesus.”
Mr Chikuvadze said Zimbabwe’s bid to host the mega-event was successful due to its reputation as a favourable destination for religious tourism.
The National Sports Stadium was the primary venue, but satellite locations in other areas like Checheche, Masvingo, and Mount Darwin were also connected, allowing for a broader reach.
Inclusive of these other sites, Mr Chikuvadze said the total attendance on Saturday reached about 38 000.
An American visitor, Mr David Knight, described visit to Zimbabwe as a “beautiful opportunity”.
His daughter, Scarlett Knight, also a first-time visitor to Zimbabwe, said her trip was memorable.
