Moffat Mungazi
Lloyd Makonya
Correspondent
IN an audacious move, renowned cleric and founder of United Family International Church (UFIC), Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa, has issued a bold challenge to prophets, both genuine and fraudulent, witch doctors, and all who claim to possess prophetic abilities.
Speaking during a service at his Chitungwiza Basilica, which was broadcasted live on social media last Sunday, the preacher offered a staggering US$1 million reward to anyone who could correctly prophesy what he would place in his pocket.
Prophet Makandiwa’s challenge is aimed at debunking the widespread belief that demonic spirits can accurately reveal hidden knowledge; an assertion he strongly refutes.
“If there is anyone, whether a prophet or a witch doctor, who receives revelations from spirits, they are welcome to come next Sunday. I will put something in my pocket, and whoever accurately tells me what it is will receive US$1 million, money I will personally borrow. We will formalise the agreement in writing. This is a golden opportunity for those who claim to see into the supernatural and those who are starting ministries, you will have the money to buy a church stand and PA system,” he declared.
Extending the challenge beyond Zimbabwe, Prophet Makandiwa pledged to sponsor travel costs for any participant from Nigeria, Kenya, or Uganda. However, he stipulated that failure would require the challenger to refund the travelling costs.
“This is the only way to dispel the delusions empowering the anti-Christ and eliminate deception,” he insisted.
The challenge has ignited controversy within Zimbabwe’s Christian community.
Prophet Miracle Paul, responding via a Facebook live broadcast, dismissed the challenge as “spiritual gambling” and warned fellow prophets against participating, cautioning that their prophetic gifts could be spiritually stolen through a traditional process known as kutsipikwa — a Shona term referring to spiritual oppression or suppression.
“I do not entertain petty challenges. Let us take it to the National Sports Stadium. I will only take your voice and, I will return it to you in 30 days,” he stated in what appeared to be a veiled attack on Prophet Makandiwa.
He further emphasized that he had built his ministry from scratch, unlike others who branched off from established churches.
Many people, however, believe that this is seemingly a battle for control of Chitungwiza by the two prophets whose ministries are all based in Chitungwiza.
Adding to the debate, Prophet Obey Tichafa Mukanhairi, popularly known as Mellontik Orasi, remarked: “The $1 million price tag is not a pompous gesture, but a brave scripture Renoir testing the agility of prophets and leaders of various spiritual dispensation.”
Controversial socialite and preacher, Prophet Passion Java also weighed in, escalating the challenge by offering US$10 million, but with a twist.
He proposed bringing a disabled person to Prophet Makandiwa’s church and pledged the sum of US$10m if Prophet Makandiwa successfully performs a miraculous healing on the person.
The public response has been explosive, with social media users debating whether Prophet Makandiwa’s challenge aligns with Christian values.
Some likened it to the biblical showdown between Prophet Elijah and the prophets of Baal, arguing that such contests can serve to reveal the true power of God.
Others criticised it as unnecessary sensationalism within the church.
Mutare-based clergy, Prophet Moreblessing Rwambiwa found himself in the spotlight as many of his followers urged him to accept the challenge, believing his prophetic abilities will secure the US$1 million prize.
With Sunday’s service at UFIC fast approaching, anticipation is at an all-time high.
Will anyone dare to take up Prophet Makandiwa’s challenge?
And if they do, will they succeed?
Whatever the outcome, one thing is certain, the battle of the prophets has taken centre stage in Zimbabwe’s religious landscape, leaving many wondering whether this is a test of faith or a battle for dominance in the prophetic movement.
Online Reporter