Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa-Herald Reporter
Religious leaders in Zimbabwe convened for the National Modified Economic Dialogue, to merge spirituality and commerce to drive economic growth in alignment with the National Development Strategy 2 (NDS2).
The meeting included 45 prominent representative from diverse faiths, marking a pivotal shift in the relationship between religion and economics.
The coalition seeks to transcend historical divisions and work collaboratively with Government officials, demonstrating a robust commitment to establishing a “religious economy.”
Spokesperson for Vapostori and MaZion for ED, Madzibaba Obey Mapuranga, said the validated proposal is set to be presented to the Office of the President and Cabinet.
“On July 8th and 9th, a religious economic dialogue took place at ZANU PF headquarters, where religious leaders from all 10 provinces convened to discuss their participation in the economy and the development of a religious economy,” said Madzibaba Mapuranga.
He noted that participants expressed support for the President’s open-door policy, despite the reluctance of opposition groups to engage in various Government dialogues.
For the first time since 1980, religious leaders are uniting to participate in all 10 approved priority areas of the NDS2 formulation, setting aside past conflicts to focus on economic interests.
The initiative mirrors successful models in countries places such as Dubai, Saudi Arabia and China, with the aim of establishing a similar religious economy in Zimbabwe.
Apostle Biggy Mutawu from the Goshen Jerusalem Apostolic Church emphasised the collective role churches must play in national economic development.
“The union between churches represents a unified movement, with Islamic and Masowe leaders signing a pact that defines their collaboration under a common agenda and in the name of God,” he stated.
Mr Luxod Mutova of Johane Masowe Yechishanu said the initiative exemplifies the collaborative efforts of churches to promote economic empowerment for all Zimbabweans.
“By fostering a unified mentality among various faith communities, it enhances their capacity to contribute meaningfully to national economic development,” he added.
Overall, this initiative signifies a transformative moment where faith and economics converge, presenting a hopeful outlook for Zimbabwe’s future through collective action and spiritual commitment.
The partnership of these religious leaders underscores the potential of faith-based organisations to address socio-economic challenges effectively.
