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Michelle Musandinyoze, [email protected]
TODAY is Easter Sunday and Bulawayo’s churches continue to buzz with activity, hosting gatherings and celebrations to commemorate the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
From solemn processions to vibrant community events, the city’s residents are coming together to observe this significant holiday.
The Roman Catholic Church kicked off Holy Week with Palm Sunday, remembering Jesus’ triumphant entry into Jerusalem.
Archbishop Alex Thomas said, “On Holy Thursday, we remembered the Last Supper of Jesus, where He washed His disciples’ feet and gave a new commandment to all to serve each other.”
The church also observed Good Friday, with Stations of the Cross starting from Bulawayo Polytechnic to St. Mary’s Cathedral Basilica.
The Apostolic Faith Church’s gathering at Sizane High School emphasised the spiritual importance of Easter, highlighting salvation and baptism through Jesus with Reverend Philisani Maphosa saying,
“Although we are commemorating this as a church, we understand that Christ gave redemption to everyone, hence we are welcoming people who are not church members to come and observe the holidays with us.”
He said the main objective of the holiday is to preach Christ and remember His sacrifice and resurrection where he became a victor over death.
The Zimbabwe Christian Alliance, with over 300,000 members, pastors and leaders participated in Easter celebrations, including community-oriented initiatives.
Executive director of the alliance, Rev Useni Sibanda urged churches to encourage youth engagement in entrepreneurship and sustainability initiatives, noting that Easter is significant for reflecting on peace, reconciliation and forgiveness.
He said they have taken the initiative to partner with the Environmental Management Agency (EMA) to supply waste bags for people attending camps and conferences so that littering is minimised.
“This is important to ensure that Easter camps don’t increase garbage and waste. Most of these will be taken for recycling,” said Rev Sibanda.
The Easter period is also injecting vitality into Bulawayo’s local economy, with residents and visitors flocking to the city for church gatherings, family celebrations and festive shopping. Retailers report a sharp increase in activity, with shoppers stocking up on food packs, clothing and gifts.
Snelisiwe Moyo, a retail shop owner, said, “This is one of our busiest times of the year. Many church members are buying food packs such as noodles, rice and drinks.”
Butcheries have also experienced a surge in demand, with families purchasing meat for Easter feasts.
The informal trading sector has benefitted, with vendors selling traditional treats like buns, sweets and drinks. Hotels, lodges and guesthouses have also reported a surge in bookings, with many establishments fully booked for the Easter weekend.
The combination of religious gatherings, retail activity and hospitality sector engagement demonstrates the economic and social significance of Easter in Bulawayo, as communities celebrate faith, family and commerce.
Online Reporter