Church urges members to use ‘talents’ to fight poverty

THE Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA) Forward in Faith Ministries Gwanda Resident Overseer, Edzayi Kahwemba, has urged church members to embrace income-generating projects known as “Talents”.

He said the initiative remains central to the church’s vision of empowering believers and eradicating poverty, especially at a time when many households are facing economic challenges. According to him, Talents are more than just small business activities; they are a practical pathway towards self-reliance and improved livelihoods within families and communities.

The Talents (also known as Matarenda) refers to a foundational entrepreneurial model established by the late Archbishop Dr Ezekiel Guti, the visionary founder of ZAOGA Forward in Faith Ministries International. Over the years, this model has become a defining feature of the church’s approach to economic empowerment.

It is a system of subsistence and transformative entrepreneurship where members use their hands, creativity and existing skills to generate household income while also contributing towards funding major church projects.

The idea is simple but powerful — begin with what you have, build gradually, and remain disciplined in both effort and financial management.

Under this model, members are taught not to rely on borrowing or waiting for large amounts of capital before starting a business. Instead, they are encouraged to take the initiative using whatever resources are readily available to them. This may include baking, knitting, cross-border trading, gardening, poultry projects or small-scale vending. Over time, these small beginnings can grow into larger and more structured businesses such as wholesale enterprises or even manufacturing ventures.

Addressing congregants during a Big Sunday service at Gwanda City Christian Centre International (GCCCI) last Sunday, the pastor said the Talents projects were inspired by the teachings and vision of the late Archbishop Professor Ezekiel Guti.

Archbishop Guti, he said, did not only emphasise spiritual growth but also practical living. He believed that faith should be accompanied by action, particularly in improving people’s everyday lives. His teachings encouraged believers to use their God-given abilities productively rather than remaining idle or dependent.

Pastor Kahwemba said the church’s roots were firmly grounded in small cell groups, which continue to play a vital role in both spiritual nurturing and economic empowerment.

“Talents are very important. The rules and policy book clearly state that there shall be cell groups. ZAOGA itself started as a cell group and that is where its foundation lies,” he said.

He said that these cell groups, which meet regularly in smaller settings, create a supportive environment where members can share ideas, encourage one another and even collaborate on income-generating activities. In this way, the church not only builds spiritual strength but also promotes unity and shared responsibility among its members.

Pastor Kahwemba also took time to reflect on the history of the church, tracing it back to the influence of Archbishop Guti’s mother, Dorcas.

He noted that her teachings, particularly about the end times, had a profound impact on the young Ezekiel Guti and helped shape his vision for the church.

These early influences, he said, helped to instil values of discipline, hard work and preparedness — principles that are still evident in the Talents programme today. The initiative, therefore, is not just about making money, but about building character and encouraging responsible living.

Pastor Kahwemba said the Talents initiative was specifically designed to help believers achieve self-reliance and improve living standards within their households. In communities where unemployment is high and opportunities are limited, such practical approaches can make a significant difference.

He challenged congregants to adopt a mindset of productivity and to take pride in their homes and surroundings. He emphasised that economic empowerment should go hand in hand with proper household management, cleanliness and discipline.

“Talents have come to eradicate poverty. As believers, we should strive for decent living standards and use the resources God has given us wisely,” said the pastor.

He also stressed the importance of starting small rather than delaying action while waiting for ideal conditions.

“Many people spend years saying they need money before they can start a business. Start with what you have and grow from there,” said Pastor Kahwemba.

This message resonated strongly with many congregants, particularly those who may feel discouraged by a lack of capital or formal employment opportunities. By encouraging people to begin with what is already available to them, the Talents model removes one of the biggest barriers to entrepreneurship.

Pastor Kahwemba further explained that the projects can play a crucial role in strengthening household income streams. Even small earnings, when managed wisely and reinvested, can grow over time and provide financial stability.

He urged members to remain committed, patient and consistent in their efforts, noting that success does not come overnight but through persistence and discipline.

“Everyone should work with Talents. Through hard work, faith and wise stewardship, poverty can be defeated in our homes and communities,” he said.

In Matabeleland South, where unemployment and economic hardships continue to affect many families, the Talents initiative is already showing signs of making a positive impact. Members who have embraced the concept are slowly building income streams that help support their families and reduce dependence on external assistance.

Beyond financial benefits, the initiative is also restoring dignity and confidence among participants. By engaging in productive activities, individuals are able to contribute meaningfully to their households and communities.

The programme also promotes a culture of resilience. Instead of focusing on challenges, members are encouraged to identify opportunities, however small, and work towards growth. This approach not only helps to address poverty but also builds a spirit of determination and hope.

As Pastor Kahwemba emphasised throughout his address, the success of the Talents initiative ultimately depends on individual commitment. The principles are simple and accessible, but they require action.

In a world where many people are waiting for opportunities to come to them, the Talents model offers a different message — that opportunity can be created through effort, faith and wise use of available resources.

For many in Gwanda and the wider Matabeleland South province, this message could not come at a better time.