Govt recommits to partner Church in fight against drug abuse

Mukudzei Chingwere in GWERU

GOVERNMENT has reaffirmed its commitment to partner the Church to tackle pressing social ills, particularly the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse, which is threatening the country’s moral fabric.

Vice President Dr Constantino Chiwenga made the remarks at the ordination ceremony of six Roman Catholic Church priests and commissioning of the newly established Gweru Diocese Pastoral Centre.

The centre, established in 2017, provides training and resources for individuals and parishes within the diocese.

VP Chiwenga was accompanied by his wife Colonel Miniyothabo Chiwenga, Energy and Power Development Minister July Moyo and other senior Government officials.

He said the commissioning of the pastoral centre is a milestone that symbolises a renewed commitment to self-reliance and sustainability in the face of diminishing external donor support.

He also said the Church is playing a vital role in shaping the country’s values and future.

“Let me reaffirm the Government of Zimbabwe’s continued commitment to working in partnership with the Church,” said VP Chiwenga.

“Together, we must confront the social challenges of our time, including the scourge of drug and substance abuse.

“The Church is a pillar of moral strength, and it plays a critical role in shaping the values and future of our nation. We pray that Zimbabwe may always stand upright before the Lord, a nation blessed and favoured by God.”

VP Chiwenga also said yesterday was a day of commissioning of a vision, adding that the establishment of the Gweru Diocese Pastoral Centre marks a significant chapter in the journey towards self-reliance and sustainability.

“In an era when external donor support is diminishing, this initiative boldly declares that we are ready to take responsibility for our church’s destiny.

“As Pope Francis has said, ‘The Church in Africa must be the protagonist of her own future.’ That future begins here, and it begins now with us,” he said.

He implored families and communities to encourage vocations, particularly among youths, saying priests are leading the battle to win and save souls.

“Zvinoda kukohwiwa zvakawanda, asi vakohwi vashoma (The harvest is plentiful, but the labourers are few). This is more than scripture; it is a reality. Our world is yearning for truth, direction and spiritual healing. To our newly ordained priests, I extend my warmest and most heartfelt congratulations,” he said.

The six who were ordained priests are Fathers Kudzai Mabhena, Gerald Simon Dube, Brian Kanyayi, Reynold Machirori, Carlos Tatenda Masiya and Calvin Wadzanai Mbenene.

VP Chiwenga implored the priests to serve with love and lead with humility.

He assured them of support from congregants.

Bishop of Gweru Diocese Right Reverend Rudolf Nyandoro presided over the ceremony.

Masvingo Diocese Bishop Right Reverend Raymond Mupandasekwa was also present to counsel the newly ordained priests.