Online Reporter
Joseph Madzimure
PRESIDENT Mnangagwa has urged the Church to take a leading role in promoting moral uprightness, nation building and good governance.
Addressing members of the Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe at Rufaro Conference Centre in Gutu, Masvingo yesterday,
President Mnangagwa, who was represented by the Minister of Defence, Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, said the Church must be an active participant in preaching against social ills such as drug and substance abuse.
“The Church must be an active participant towards the attainment of an upper middle income society by 2030,” said President Mnangagwa.
He expressed gratitude to the AFM leadership for the invitation, emphasising the strong partnership between the church and Government in building the nation.
“My Government’s philosophy is clear: a country is built by its people and prayed for by its people.
“Your presence here in such large numbers makes me proud. Let us continue serving the Lord and seeking His guidance as we work together for the prosperity of our nation.”
The President commended churches for their vital role in national development through the establishment of schools, clinics and other community projects.
He highlighted Government’s vision to transform Zimbabwe into an upper-middle-income economy by 2030, noting that development is a shared responsibility that requires both spiritual and physical effort.
President Mnangagwa reaffirmed the Second Republic’s commitment to rural development through programmes such as Village Business Units, as well as finalising land tenure reforms and empowering communities.
He urged the Church to explore renewable energy initiatives as independent power producers and pledged Government support for innovative projects within faith-based institutions.
“Our diversity is our strength. The Church is a pillar of hope and light, positioned at the highest point of our society. Let us live in harmony and teach our children the ways of God, while instilling in them good business ethics for a prosperous future,” said President Mnangagwa.
He implored AFM to remain vocal against issues such as drug and substance abuse, which continue to affect communities. The President noted that the Government is working tirelessly to curb these vices and called on the church to complement these efforts through moral guidance and prayer.
He reminded the congregation that the partnership between the church and Government is fundamental in achieving sustainable development.
“Let us rise as one church and one nation to build Zimbabwe together. The Almighty God will bless this work,” President Mnangagwa said.
Peter Tanyanyiwa