Tendai Gukutikwa
Post Reporter
CHURCHES have been challenged to broaden their contribution to community development by partnering Government and other stakeholders in addressing the social and economic challenges facing communities.
Speaking during the ordination of Bishop Paradza Shava, and the admission of Vateveri vaKristu Apostolic Church into the Union for the Development of Apostolic Churches in Zimbabwe Africa (UDACIZA) in Marange recently, Minister of State for Manicaland Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Advocate Misheck Mugadza, said churches are key partners in the country’s development agenda.
The minister’s speech was delivered on his behalf by Mutare District Development Coordinator, Mr Tendai Kapenzi.
Minister Mugadza said religious institutions play a crucial role that goes beyond providing spiritual guidance, extending to community mobilisation, environmental stewardship and livelihood enhancement.
“Churches are not only places of worship. They are also centres of moral guidance, community mobilisation, social support, and the promotion of peace and unity. Through their teachings and community activities, they can contribute significantly to environmental conservation, livelihood development and the wellbeing of families,” he said.
He noted that sustainable development cannot be achieved by Government alone, and called on churches to strengthen partnerships with traditional leaders, civil society organisations, the private sector and local communities.
Minister Mugadza also urged UDACIZA to deepen cooperation among churches and development stakeholders, stressing that membership in the religious body should be accompanied by ethical leadership, accountability and a commitment to serving communities.
UDACIZA Manicaland provincial chairperson, Reverend Prosper Sithole, welcomed the admission of Vateveri vaKristu Apostolic Church into the organization, and encouraged more apostolic and white garment churches to join the network.
He said greater collaboration among religious institutions will strengthen their collective capacity to contribute meaningfully to community development and social transformation.
