Online Reporter
Fidelis Munyoro
Chief Court Reporter
A wave of jubilation swept across Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport this week, transforming it into a breathtaking canvas of white and blue as hundreds of elated members of the Gospel of God Church International gathered to welcome home a 31‑member group of their brethren returning from a spiritual journey that had taken them around the world — a mission spanning more than four decades.
The atmosphere was alive with celebration, the air electric with anticipation.
Women clad in flowing white and sky‑blue dresses, their garments shimmering beneath the airport lights, stood shoulder to shoulder with men in pristine white robes.
Together, they created a scene so captivating that even travellers passing through the terminal stopped in their tracks, drawn in by the beauty and energy of the moment. Some even joined in to witness the extraordinary arrival.
As word spread that the group had cleared customs, the waiting crowd broke into song.
The melodies rose, filling the vast space with harmonies that seemed to ripple through the walls. It was a moment of pure euphoria.
When the returning pilgrims finally emerged, moving in a steady line, the crowd erupted. Cheers, laughter and heartfelt cries filled the air as joyous reunions unfolded.
Women rushed forward to embrace the returning “sisters”, tears of happiness streaming down their faces.
Nearby, men exchanged warm hugs and firm handshakes, their faces lit with uncontainable smiles. It was a celebration of faith — a moment of triumph.
The group was quickly ushered into a waiting bus, but the joy lingered, almost tangible.
Among those present was church secretary Muvangeri Joromia Mususu, his face glowing with pride and excitement.
“This is a welcome development,” he said, his voice brimming with emotion. “They have gone to all seven nations as instructed by Baba Johane.” He paused, as if imagining the late spiritual leader, Baba Johane Masowe, smiling with satisfaction from above.
Mususu recounted the mission — a divine mandate that had taken the group to Ethiopia, Israel, Britain, the United States, Germany, India and finally Australia. It was a spiritual odyssey rooted in instructions given by Baba Johane in the 1950s and 1960s, with the mission beginning in earnest in 1998.
Completing the journey had not been easy. Australia, intended as the final destination, presented its own challenges, delaying their return for more than 20 years. But now, the mission was complete, and the significance of the moment was unmistakable.
“Their return marks an important day,” Mususu continued. “Baba Johane said once the mission was accomplished, Zimbabwe would be blessed with prosperity — and this blessing would extend to Africa and the world. But it all begins here in Zimbabwe, where his gospel started.”
The group’s return carried not only spiritual meaning but also historical and political resonance. Prophet Oliver Maregere, speaking on behalf of the church, described the immense challenges faced during the journey. He expressed deep gratitude to President Mnangagwa for his support, particularly in Kenya.
“We want to thank the Government under the stewardship of President Mnangagwa,” Maregere said, his voice filled with reverence. “He came to Kenya and played a big role for us to be recognised there.”
Maregere elaborated on the struggles of the Shona community in Kenya, whose plight stretched back more than 60 years. Stateless and undocumented, they had faced a future filled with uncertainty. But in 2024, through diplomatic efforts led by President Mnangagwa, the community of 3 500 to 4 000 people was finally granted citizenship, becoming Kenya’s 46th tribe.
The moment marked a historic breakthrough, bringing an end to decades of hardship. “President Mnangagwa’s relentless effort — and divine intervention — made this possible,” Maregere said, his gratitude evident.
Reflecting on the mission’s completion, Maregere described it as a monumental moment, not only for the church but also for Zimbabwe, Africa and the world. “Baba Johane assured us that once we accomplished his mission to the seven countries, the results would be extraordinary. What has happened is a testament to that promise.”
