Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure, Zimpapers Politics Hub
ACTING President Dr Constantino Chiwenga has called on churches to intensify their involvement in the fight against drug and substance abuse, by working closely with communities and supporting national anti-drug campaigns being co-ordinated by the Government.
Dr. Chiwenga made the call yesterday while addressing Roman Catholic congregants at the funeral mass held for Brother Jonathan Chazura, a long-serving Jesuit, who was laid to rest at Chishawasha Mission Cemetery.
He said the late Brother Chazura’s legacy of mentoring young people should be honoured by educating the youth on the dangers of drugs.
“Let us keep Brother Jonathan’s legacy. We all have a duty to shun drug and substance abuse. Let’s say no to drug abuse and no to mutoriro,” he said.
Dr Chiwenga, himself a devout Catholic, described Brother Chazura as a man who dedicated his life to education and the development of young people.
“He was dedicated to ensuring the development of the youth and would go out to look for scholarships. He was rich in human warmth and a mentor who was deeply sensitive to today’s challenges. To the family and the Society of Jesus, they have lost not only a father figure, but a pillar of strength and inspiration,” he said.
The Acting President also urged churches, particularly the Roman Catholic, to continue playing a leading role in promoting education in the context of national development.
“He was dedicated to ensuring the development of the youth and would go out to look for scholarships.”
Brother Chazura dedicated 49 years to missionary service, becoming one of the most revered administrators in the history of the Catholic Church in Zimbabwe. He was instrumental in helping many young people, including some who later became senior politicians, to secure scholarships to study abroad.
Among them was former Police Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri. Fellow clergy and family members described him as a beacon of inspiration whose life touched many.
Father Fidelis Mukonori, who worked closely with him since 1976, said: “He was so passionate about working with the youth, and it was a passion he successfully maintained throughout his ministry.”
Family member Mr Simbarashe Chazura said: “We have indeed lost a pillar, a beacon that illuminated everyone’s life in our family.”
Father Lawrence Daka from Zambia, who attended the funeral service, added: “We have lost a great man. It will be so difficult to replace such a hardworking and honest person who lived an exemplary life that should be emulated by everyone.”
Brother Chazura was born on March 15, 1958 in Chinhoyi
Cde Chiwenga ndi Dr?