Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Reporter
THE Seventh-Day Adventist Church’s Department of Public Affairs and Religious Liberty in the North Zimbabwe Conference has intensified collaboration with Government and civic institutions to uplift rural communities, promote religious tolerance and advance national development goals.
Through empowerment programmes, prison outreach and interfaith gatherings, the church’s department is positioning itself as a partner in ensuring no one is left behind in the country’s growth trajectory.
In a recent 2024-2025 mid-term report, PARL chairman Dr Desire Sibanda said the department’s work in rural areas directly supports Government priorities for inclusive development.
He said chiefs, civic leaders and communities have embraced their programmes.
“We are working very closely with the Government in ensuring the achievement of national goals, particularly in rural areas,” said Dr Sibanda.
“Our programmes improve lives, while spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Highlighting the department’s partnership with the Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Service, Dr Sibanda said more than 400 senior officials took part in family life and project management programmes over the past year.
“In the last 12 months, over 400 senior ZPCS officials have participated in such programmes in Harare, Murewa and Marondera, just to name a few.
“These programmes strengthen family bonds and equip officials with financial and management skills,” he said.
From rural villages to national platforms, the Seventh-day Adventist’s initiatives combine social empowerment with spiritual guidance in support of National Development Strategy 2, which aims for an upper middle income society by 2030.
Dr Sibanda stressed the importance of interfaith gatherings.
“Religious tolerance is a key objective in our work that prioritise national goals.
“Bringing together leaders from Zimbabwe, South Africa, and the USA demonstrates unity in diversity,” he said.
Dr Sibanda added that the church’s department has also engaged senior police officers through seminars, including a recent major event in Harare.
“We believe in empowering institutions that safeguard society. Our seminars equip officers with values that blend faith, family, and professional responsibility,” said Dr Sibanda.
Dr Sibanda added that the programmes extend to health and youth empowerment, aligning with Zimbabwe’s broader development agenda.
“Our initiatives support social and economic development while upholding freedom of choice in religious matters. By training young people in project management, we are investing in the future of our nation,” he said.
