As Zimbabwe prepares to host the 44th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit in Harare this week, the Zion Christian Church (ZCC) has publicly expressed its support for the event. The church’s leader, Bishop Nehemiah Mutendi, has committed to praying for peace and success during the summit, emphasizing the significance of the event for regional integration and cooperation.
Addressing thousands of pilgrims at the ZCC’s Defe shrine in Gokwe in celebration of Zuva raSamuel Mutendi, Bishop Mutendi conveyed his support for both Zimbabwe and President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who is set to assume the chairmanship of the SADC during the summit.
“We want to wish Zimbabwe success in hosting the SADC Summit. We need to pray for Africa and SADC in particular because all the leaders in the region will be here. We want to pray for our leaders so that the Lord be with them during this time. We want God to give them wisdom as they gather. It is a great moment for Zimbabwe,” Bishop Mutendi said.
In addition to his support for the summit, Bishop Mutendi highlighted a significant development related to the shrine’s needs. President Mnangagwa, represented by Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, Dr. Anxious Masuka, had previously addressed the water crisis affecting the shrine and surrounding areas.
Dr. Masuka announced that President Mnangagwa had responded to the request for water solutions by providing six boreholes to the area. Furthermore, a new project, the Defe Dam, has been initiated to address the long-term water needs of the shrine and its visitors. Construction of the dam is expected to begin soon, which will provide a more sustainable water source.
The event at the shrine also featured a mass wedding ceremony where 20 couples exchanged vows, adding to the celebration of Zuva raSamuel Mutendi. This annual event honors the founding father of the ZCC, who passed away on July 20, 1976. The ZCC’s support for the SADC Summit and its involvement in addressing local infrastructure needs underscore the church’s commitment to both national and regional development.
In other news – Shocking ritual k!lling suspected in Nkayi
In a disturbing development, a villager from Nkayi in Matabeleland North province was found dead under gruesome circumstances, with only his torso discovered at the scene and his head missing. The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the incident and is seeking public assistance.
According to Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the body of 55-year-old Sipho Mbulani was discovered on August 9, 2024, behind a bedroom hut at Nqakala Village. The victim’s head was absent, and his feet were reportedly bound with wire, raising concerns about the possibility of a ritualistic motive behind the murder. Read More
