Zimbabweans called to prayer

Kuda Bwititi, Harare Bureau
PRESIDENT Emmerson Mnangagwa will tomorrow lead the nation in the Presidential National Day of Prayer and Fasting to galvanise the moral and spiritual fortitude of the nation in its fight against the Covid-19 pandemic.

The Day of Prayer comes at a time infection rates are increasing in African countries, with South Africa becoming one of the hotspots on the continent, which makes it increasingly difficult for neighbouring Zimbabwe.

In his address to the nation last month, President Mnangagwa noted that the majority of coronavirus cases had been imported.

As of yesterday, Zimbabwe had recorded 356 confirmed cases. The whole nation is expected to join the Head of State and Government for a virtual church service that will be attended by leaders from different denominations at State House in Harare from 10am to noon.

The church service will be broadcast live on ZBC-TV, Zimpapers Television Network (ZTN) and other online platforms. Churches will be allowed to gather in groups of 50 in observance of social distancing rules while wearing face masks remains mandatory in all public places.

President Mnangagwa urged people to fast and participate in groups, while upholding social distancing guidelines. The President said henceforth, church congregations, which had been banned under the national lockdown, will be allowed to worship, albeit in groups of not more than fifty people.

Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Monica Mutsvangwa said: “Zimbabwe is a predominantly Christian nation even though all religions find a home here. It is because of this fact that His Excellency, President Mnangagwa has seen it appropriate to bring everyone in one accord, praying and meditating on the challenges which face us as a nation because of Covid-19. A few people and clerics will gather at State House but otherwise everyone will gather in small groups at home, and between 10am and 12 noon join in a period of prayers of petition to the Lord.”

Spokesperson for the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Mr Ranson Madzamba said a gospel music concert will also be held on the day.

“Breaking the fast in fighting the Covid-19 pandemic is the theme we are moving with at the concert that shall be aired live on ZBC-TV and on the Ministry of Youth, Sport, Arts and Recreation Facebook page, as well as the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe Facebook page on Monday from 9pm till midnight. The gospel artistes to perform are Minister Mahendere, Baba na Mai Charamba, Matthias Mhere, Mambo Dhuterere, Janet Manyowa, Family Voices, Dorcas Moyo, Kuda Mutsvene, Note2Note, Blessing Shumba and Pastor Emmanuel Marecha.”