Online Reporter
BUSINESSWOMAN Dr Afra Chinhamu Nhanhanga, a director at CAG Travellers Coach, has founded an inter-denominational church, specifically for bus drivers and conductors. In an interview with Arron Nyamayaro (AN), Dr Nhanhanga shares her vision and experiences.
AN: What inspired you to start an inter-denominational church for bus drivers and conductors?
ACN: Several factors inspired this initiative, primarily the need to restore the dignity of drivers and conductors. They are often seen as uneducated or immoral, yet they play a crucial role in safely transporting people. Many have families relying on them for support. We aim to uphold their moral values through the power of prayer and scripture. With busy schedules, many drivers lack the opportunity to attend their church services. Our church meets every Sunday from 3 PM to 5 PM.
AN: Can you share your vision for how this church will impact the transportation community?
ACN: Our life-changing services aim to instil a new spirit in drivers and conductors, fostering a more positive environment for them and their passengers. When stressed, conflicts can arise, leading to accidents. My vision is to see drivers lead as pastors and conductors as evangelists, spreading goodwill wherever they go.
AN: What specific moral values do you aim to instil in drivers and conductors through this church?
ACN: We want to shift their mindset from feeling inferior toward embracing their roles as significant contributors to society. They should recognise that their work has value and that every individual matters before God.
AN: How do you measure the success of your initiative in reducing road traffic accidents?
ACN: Success is gauged through testimonies shared during our services. These personal stories reflect spiritual growth and validate the effectiveness of our teachings, highlighting how individuals overcome challenges.
AN: What types of programmes or activities does the church offer to its members?
ACN: We organise sporting activities for wellness, counselling sessions for mental health, and initiatives to combat domestic violence. Additionally, we plan educational trips to historical sites, promoting personal development and family support.
AN: Are there any specific teachings or practices that relate directly to safe driving?
ACN: Continuous learning is paramount. We emphasise regular health check-ups and retesting to ensure drivers remain safe on the roads.
AN: How do you involve the drivers and conductors in the church’s activities?
ACN: We encourage them to showcase their talents, be it in music, preaching, or teaching. Everyone contributes to building the community, which strengthens their faith and sense of belonging.
AN: Have you collaborated with any transportation authorities or safety organisations to further your goals?
ACN: Yes, we engage with traffic safety councils, police traffic officers, and local church leaders to address safety issues during our services.
AN: What challenges have you faced in establishing and maintaining this church?
ACN: Some drivers are hesitant to embrace the initiative, mistakenly believing our purpose is to create a separate ministry. Spiritual endeavours often face resistance. However, we remain steadfast in our mission, recognising that change can be slow.
AN: How do you gather feedback from members about their experiences and the effectiveness of the church’s programmes?
ACN: Feedback comes through testimonies, which I consider vital for measuring the impact of our teachings. The growing number is also a true feedback of the impact of the teachings.
AN: What are your future plans for expanding this initiative?
ACN: We aim to engage other transporters to create a unified approach to road safety and also allow their families to participate in our services, fostering a broader community connection.
AN: Do you envision any partnerships with other organisations or faith groups to further your mission?
ACN: By collaborating with various church leaders, we aim to provide diverse perspectives and gifts. We also engage with health officials and community leaders to address broader social issues.
AN: How has your involvement in this initiative changed your perspective on road safety or the moral responsibilities of drivers?
ACN: I’ve learnt that our Christian lives intersect with our professional responsibilities. We must approach our work with a spirit of integrity and love for our fellow travellers.
AN: What personal experiences have shaped your commitment to this cause?
ACN: Having worked as a bus conductor myself, I understand the challenges drivers face. This experience fuels my passion for advocating their well-being and safety.
AN: We see that the bigger number of members are males.
ACN: This is one of church services where you find more men than women and that alone tells much in terms of winning men to Christ. When a number of men receives the gospel we see a number of families prospering since most men spent money in promiscuity and buying food and drinks they do not share with their families. We are urging more men to attend this together with their families.
AN: How are you handling employees of different faith like Moslems, Hindus and traditionalists?
ACN: We are not preaching against anyone’s faith but teaching fundamental issues with a view to bring peace, unity and safety among our drivers and conductors.
AN: What message would you like to convey to drivers and conductors who might be hesitant to join?
ACN: This is not about starting a new church; it’s about uniting different denominations to create a strong, supportive community. Together, we can instil hope and unity among all who serve in the transportation industry.
