Government hails Church for food security efforts

Mukudzei Chingwere in Gweru

Government has hailed the Roman Catholic Church for going beyond the spiritual realm of shepherding the faithful and joining in the efforts to guarantee national food security.

This was said by Vice-President Dr Constantino Chiwenga during the silver jubilee celebrations of Bishop Rudolph Nyandoro’s priesthood at Regina Mundi High School in Gweru yesterday.

“As the Government, we thank Sekuru Nyandoro for his visionary spiritual leadership,” said Dr Chiwenga. 

“Recently, I was in Driefontein witnessing a massive agricultural project, which the Catholic Church embarked on, in the process complimenting Government’s efforts to eradicate food insecurity in Zimbabwe. 

“Such programmes need to be applauded and supported, as they are key to the development of the Midlands Province and Zimbabwe at large. 

“I have no hesitation in saying the Catholic Church has proved beyond doubt that its efforts to work with the Government of Zimbabwe are very visible and bearing tangible results day in and day out.” 

The Roman Catholic Church also has plans to build a Pastoral Centre in Gweru Diocese and VP Chiwenga assured them of Government’s support in implementing their projects.

The VP also donated 200 000 bricks towards the construction of the Pastoral Centre.

“I have been informed that the building of a Pastoral Centre is a project which is at the centre of your heart as we celebrate this Silver Jubilee,” said Dr Chiwenga. 

“Indeed, I agree that the Pastoral Centre project is long overdue for the Gweru                       Diocese. 

“Embarking on this project is indeed in line with the concept of the jubilee as I have alluded to before. Let me assure you that the Government of Zimbabwe, ably led by His Excellency the President Cde Dr Emmerson Mnangagwa, is in full support of all your projects.”

Masvingo Diocese Bishop Right Reverend Raymond Mupandasekwa recounted the history of Bishop Nyandoro.

He said his colleague has done exceptionally well in making sure that not only his flock but everyone around him feels comfortable.