Online Reporter
Robin Mucheto
VICE President Kembo Mohadi has said the mandate of national development requires the participation of every citizen, including the church, as Zimbabwe advances its nation-building agenda.
Addressing delegates at the Annual Convention of the Adventist-Laymen’s Services and Industries (ASI) under the Zimbabwe West Union Conference chapter, VP Mohadi underscored the importance of faith-based organisations in shaping the country’s social and economic landscape.
“Service to humanity is service to God,” he said.
The Vice President said President Emmerson Mnangagwa consistently calls on citizens to take responsibility for developing the country.
“Nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, igonamatirwa nevene vayo,” he said.
“I want to emphasise the point that says a nation is also prayed for by its people. These are strong words from a Head of State to inculcate the virtue of patriotism. No one from any other planet will come and assist to build our country,” he said.
VP Mohadi said the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church has a long-standing legacy of service in Zimbabwe, describing it as part of the country’s national heritage dating back many years.
He noted that the church’s membership has grown to more than one million Zimbabweans, reflecting significant expansion and influence.
The Vice President commended the SDA Church for its contribution to education and health services, saying its network of schools across the country continues to provide quality education.
“The church’s contribution to social security is impressive,” he said.
“The SDA church partners government in times of national development. A true friend is known in times of adversity,” he added.
VP Mohadi applauded the church for its swift response during national disasters, citing Cyclone Idai in Manicaland Province.
“You did not just bring aid but dignity and recovery in those communities,” he said.
He also acknowledged the church’s role in combating social ills, particularly drug and substance abuse among the youth.
“The Adventist church has not remained silent about this issue. We applaud your leadership to pledge to build rehabilitation centres in the country,” he said.
Turning to economic empowerment and self-reliance, VP Mohadi said the church has demonstrated a strong presence in supporting small and medium enterprises.
“They are empowering SMEs in this region. We applaud these efforts and we believe you can do more in empowering our young people,” he added.
The Vice President reiterated that the church is playing a leading role in nation-building and assured delegates of the Government’s continued support for freedom of worship in Zimbabwe.
“Be the salt and the light in Zimbabwe, without you we may lose course. Continue to pray for your leaders,” he said.
