Sukulwenkosi Dube-Matutu [email protected]
THE growth of the church fraternity has been identified as one of the strategies that could help address social ills such as drug and substance abuse and crime, which are increasingly affecting communities.
Speaking on Friday during a fundraising dinner for the construction of the Harvest House International (HHI) Gwanda Central Church complex, Gwanda Municipality Town Clerk Ms Priscillah Nkala said a multi-stakeholder approach was needed to empower churches to play a greater role in community development.
The church is constructing a state-of-the-art complex that will include a 6 000-seater auditorium, a private school, a 500-seater hall, a shopping mall, a guest house, an administration block and housing facilities.
Construction of the 500-seater hall is currently underway, with the church calling on stakeholders to support the project.
Ms Nkala said churches had an important role to play in addressing social challenges, particularly those affecting young people.
“The growth of the church fraternity is crucial to the development of our town, province and entire nation. As council we respect the church fraternity. Today we are battling ills such as drug and substance abuse and crime which is affecting mostly the youth. If the church rises and builds then it will have significant impact in the community.
“Here we see a noble initiative where the church isn’t only building a place to worship but also a school and other amenities. The church fraternity has a crucial role in promoting peace and unity.
As council we support this vision as it speaks to development and growth of the town. Where there is peace and unity there is development,” she said.
She said collaboration between churches, local authorities and leaders from different sectors was essential in strengthening community development initiatives.
The proposed complex is expected to provide not only worship facilities but also educational, commercial and social amenities for the wider community.
