Churches urge collective action in Bulawayo clean-up drive

Michelle Musandinyoze

CHURCHES in Bulawayo have emphasised that religious doctrine should be at the forefront of promoting cleanliness as they take part in today’s First Friday national clean-up campaign.

The campaign, driven by various church denominations and supported by stakeholders such as the police and vendors, has been instrumental in keeping parts of the city clean, particularly the highly congested Sixth Avenue area.

Bulawayo councillor in the state presidency of Latter Day Saints, Cetshwayo Moyo, emphasised the crucial role that churches play in leading communities, noting that their responsibility goes beyond providing spiritual guidance.

“We have to clean our surroundings first before we clean ourselves,” he said.
He also highlighted the importance of unity, regardless of religious differences, in achieving the collective goal of maintaining a clean environment.

Apostle Elizabeth Mhunduru from Victorious Christian Church International said vendors have begun to recognise the importance of maintaining a clean city, with some now making it a point to dispose of waste on a daily basis.

“We started with just one street, and now we are tackling four routes. Churches have rallied together, donating essential items like gloves, masks, and water, among others,” she said.

Churches said the clean-up campaign reflects collective efforts aimed at promoting a cleaner Bulawayo, with the ultimate goal of encouraging citizens to practise cleanliness every day.