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Gibson Mhaka
LIKE a flock of sheep, a sea of people dressed in white make their way to open-air worship areas scattered around the city.
Apostolic sects, popularly known as amapostori/vapostori, experiencing a surge in popularity, typically prefer to congregate in the open air — under trees, near large rocks, on hillsides — literally anywhere they can find space.
However, concerns have been raised about littering and open defecation near the open-air shrines used by these sects.
Environmental experts have also long identified that the lack of proper sanitation at these shrines creates potential breeding grounds for water-borne diseases.
Despite threats, arrests and fines on church members, apostolic sects have invaded all open spaces in high-density suburbs.
The latest council minutes paint a bleak picture. Apparently, for the umpteenth time, Bulawayo City Council (BCC) councillors expressed concern over the rising number of open-air worshippers who are establishing illegal prayer sites where there are no toilets.
“Councillor N Ndlovu (Ward 28 Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu) expressed concern on the issue of open-air worshipping and the spread of illegal shacks around the city. Councillor MT Moyo (Ward 26 Mpumelelo Moyo) raised concern about the Nketa 6 Park, noting that the park required water in order for it to be revamped and bring it back to life.
“He indicated that if council was unable to maintain the park it would be wise to avail the open space for other productive uses. Nonetheless, he expressed gratitude to the department for sweeping and clearing the park,” partly read the council’s latest minutes
Assistant Director of Housing and Community Services highlighted that open-air worshipping was an illegal occupation of Council land and rangers were on the ground to deal with open air worshippers. He noted that a report addressing the issue would soon be submitted.
“Alternative use of parks would require the involvement of Town Planning. Partnership with other stakeholders was a challenge because the contracts were tied. Free donations to spruce up the parks were required.
“Even though the water was available in some parks, the irrigation system was a challenge. A Council Resolution on Friends of the Park to solicit for partners without tied funds was in place. An update will be submitted on the progress of ‘Friends of the Park’.”
The Chamber Secretary, Sikhangele Zhou, advised that illegal occupation of land around the City by open air worshippers had continued to take place.
She indicated that an exercise to deal with the situation was in place though posing a great challenge because of the lack of positive response from the worshippers, adding that enforcement of by-laws was taking place and offenders were being fined.
Meanwhile, environmental experts are on record stating the need for local authorities to engage with religious leaders and communities.
This engagement should advocate for responsible worship practices and highlight the health risks associated with open-air gatherings that lack proper sanitation facilities.
Online Reporter