Online Reporter
Obey Musiwa
Herald Correspondent
THE African Zionist Churches Association (AZCA) was launched in Harare South on Saturday, bringing together over 250 bishops under one roof to unite Zionist churches in economic development, poverty reduction and campaigns against drug and substance abuse.
The initiative aligns with President Mnangagwa’s mantra of “leaving no one and no place behind” and responds to rising social challenges, including unsafe abortions, child marriages, and drug-related violence in Hopley and Southlea Park.
The launch, held in partnership with Vapositori for Economic Development, highlighted the growing role of faith-based organisations in complementing Government efforts to achieve Vision 2030.
Harare South legislator Cde Trymore Kanopula emphasised the importance of churches joining hands with the Government to fight drug abuse and strengthen economic development.
He said the President’s declaration of drug abuse as a “national disaster” required collective action.
“This shows the President’s call that ‘no one and no place will be left behind’, as the Zions and Vapositori demonstrate inclusivity as we all work towards Vision 2030.
“If churches work with us, and MPs do too, we are able to protect the President through prayers from bad spirits,” he said.
Founder and chairman of AZCA, Rev Musavengana Tahwa, emphasised that the association was formed to unite Zionist churches, ensure inclusion in national programmes, and mobilise underutilised resources for development.
He said Zionist teachings discourage alcohol and drug abuse, making the church a natural ally in the fight against social ills.
“We noticed that some associations were being left out when meetings were hosted by the Government, so we created this association to include everyone.
“As Zions, we are taught from a young age not to indulge in alcohol and substance abuse, although we are currently facing problems within,” said Rev Tahwa.
In her sentiments, national spokesperson for Vapositori for Economic Development, Madzimai Nyaradzo Musokeri, emphasised the urgency of tackling drug abuse, which she described as destroying the youth and eroding dignity in communities.
She highlighted counselling and guidance programmes as key interventions.
“We are in this drive, as the apostolic and Zions for economic development, and we have introduced guidance and counselling programmes.
“These programmes can actually teach the word of God and dignity within society,” she said.
Harare South Constituency Coordinator Cde Blessing Matwaya highlighted the importance of practical projects and community activities in steering young people away from drugs and substance abuse.
He emphasised that empowerment initiatives such as welding and catering were designed to provide residents with sustainable skills and economic stability.
“The projects of welding, catering and other initiatives empower the society to do things that can sustain them towards economic stability.”
“We have set games to remove people from drug abuse, keeping them engaged in positive activities,” he said.
