Online Reporter
Robin Muchetu and Judith Phiri
Bulawayo Bureau
VICE President Kembo Mohadi has underscored the vital role of the Church in nation-building, highlighting that the task of national development requires the active involvement of all sectors of society, including religious institutions, the business community and the locals.
Speaking at the 2026 Annual Convention of the Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASI) under the Zimbabwe West Union Conference (ZWUC), held at Solusi University yesterday, VP Mohadi commended the Church’s influence in shaping moral values, fostering social cohesion and contributing to community development.
He stressed that the Church’s leadership and moral guidance are essential in uniting the nation and driving sustainable progress.
The Vice President emphasised the importance of collaboration between Government and religious organisations, recognising that faith-based institutions play a crucial role in promoting peace, social justice and development initiatives across Zimbabwe.
“As Government, we recognise that the mandate of national development cannot be shouldered by the State alone. It requires the ‘total member involvement’ of committed partners who understand that service to humanity is service to God,” he said.
“In this regard, the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe His Excellency Dr ED Mnangagwa always inspires citizens to come forward and build Zimbabwe as the Mantra goes; ‘Ilizwe lakhiwa, likhulekelwe, libuswe ngabanikazi balo.’ ‘Nyika inovakwa, igonamatirwa, igotongwa nevene vayo’”
VP Mohadi said the Seventh-Day Adventist (SDA) Church has a legacy of service dating back to 1894 and forms part of Zimbabwe’s national heritage, with its membership now exceeding one million in the country.
He noted that the church established the first private university, Solusi University and runs more than 100 primary schools and 50 secondary schools, including Anderson, Bulawayo Adventist High and Ruya.
“The SDA church partners Government in times of national disasters. A true friend is known in times of adversity,” VP Mohadi.
“The Government applauds the SDA Church particularly through the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).”
He commended the Church for its swift response to disasters, citing Cyclone Idai in Manicaland Province.
VP Mohadi said the Church was playing a key role in combating social ills such as drug and substance abuse affecting the youth.
Turning to economic empowerment and self-reliance, VP Mohadi said the Church has established a strong presence in uplifting marginalised communities, with Government recognising its efforts. VP Mohadi assured delegates of Government’s continued support for freedom of worship in Zimbabwe. Speaking at the same event, Matabeleland South Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Albert Nguluvhe, told delegates that the Church was a key development partner in the province, adding that the convention would help improve investment and stimulate business growth.
Meanwhile, VP Mohadi earlier on attended the launch of the Sukumani Foundation’s Beyond The Classroom Leadership Programme held at a local hotel in Bulawayo where he called on the youth to be the patriots of the nation’s vision 2030 as they are the future leaders of tomorrow who will drive Zimbabwe’s economic transformation.
The Beyond The Classroom Leadership Programme is being run by the Sukumani Foundation which was formed May 2025 and is targeted at future leaders aged 16 to 18.
Tinaye Agere