NATIONAL Hero Archbishop Paul Mwazha, the revered founder of the African Apostolic Church and one of Zimbabwe’s most influential spiritual leaders, will be laid to rest this Sunday at Chirasauta Shrine after thousands of congregants, dignitaries and community members gathered on Saturday for a solemn yet vibrant church service at the Guvambwa Holy Shrine in Sadza, Mashonaland East Province.
The towering religious figure, affectionately known as Mutumwa (The Angel) by his followers, passed away on 20 November at the age of 106. Born in October 1918, Archbishop Mwazha lived through colonial rule, the liberation struggle, and the post-independence era, dedicating more than eight decades of his life to spiritual service, national unity and humanitarian work. His death marks the end of a remarkable chapter in Zimbabwe’s religious landscape.
Following his passing, President Emmerson Mnangagwa conferred upon him National Hero status — one of the highest honours in Zimbabwe — citing the Archbishop’s unwavering commitment to fostering peace, harmony and moral guidance across generations. The President praised Mwazha’s influence as transcending politics, denominations and ethnic boundaries, describing him as a “pillar of unity whose teachings brought together millions of Zimbabweans under the banner of faith and nationhood.”
Preparations for Sunday’s burial have been in full motion, with the Chirasauta Shrine — a sacred site for congregants of the African Apostolic Church — expected to host an exceptionally large crowd. The turnout is anticipated to match, or even exceed, the masses who attended Saturday’s memorial service, which was marked by emotional hymns, testimonies of healing and transformation, and reflections on Mwazha’s vast spiritual legacy.
Saturday’s service at Guvambwa Holy Shrine was characterised by a deeply reverent atmosphere. Church members dressed in their signature white garments filled the expansive shrine grounds, some arriving as early as dawn to secure a place close to the main altar. Choirs delivered soul-stirring hymns that echoed across the Sadza landscape, while senior church leaders preached messages centred on unity, humility and the continuation of Mwazha’s teachings.
Preparations Complete for Burial of National Hero Archbishop Mwazha
Several speakers recounted the Archbishop’s extraordinary life journey — from his humble upbringing in Wedza District to the establishment of one of Zimbabwe’s largest indigenous churches. Founded in the 1950s, the African Apostolic Church grew from a small prayer group into a nationwide movement, drawing followers attracted to Mwazha’s emphasis on spiritual discipline, faith-based healing, and community development. His ability to blend Christian doctrine with African identity resonated deeply with many Zimbabweans seeking a faith anchored in both spirituality and cultural pride.
As mourners shared their personal experiences, a recurring theme emerged: Archbishop Mwazha’s unique ability to connect with people from all walks of life. He counselled families in crisis, prayed for the sick, mediated disputes, and encouraged young people to pursue education and moral uprightness. His followers regard him not only as a religious leader but as a father figure who dedicated his life to service without seeking material gain.
Government representatives, traditional leaders and politicians also attended Saturday’s event, offering tributes that highlighted Mwazha’s bridge-building role during difficult periods in the nation’s history. They noted that his churches often became safe havens during times of social or political tension, with the Archbishop consistently preaching messages of peace, forgiveness and national cohesion.
Security officials have indicated that crowd control measures, transport arrangements and health services have been enhanced ahead of Sunday’s burial. Local villagers, church volunteers and community leaders have been mobilised to support the logistics, with many describing the preparations as both an honour and a sacred duty.
For many congregants, the upcoming burial is not merely a funeral but a spiritual milestone marking the transition of a revered servant of God. Pilgrims from across Zimbabwe — and from neighbouring countries where the African Apostolic Church has branches — have continued arriving throughout the weekend. Bus loads of worshippers have been seen travelling through Mashonaland East Province heading towards the shrines, singing hymns and carrying church banners in Mwazha’s honour.
Religious scholars note that Archbishop Mwazha leaves behind a legacy unmatched in its reach and longevity. His teachings influenced millions, his church shaped community values in rural and urban areas alike, and his message of faith-driven perseverance continues to resonate profoundly in a country still grappling with socio-economic challenges.
As Zimbabwe prepares for Sunday’s burial, the nation pauses to reflect on the extraordinary life of a man who dedicated more than a century to spiritual leadership. For his followers, Archbishop Mwazha may have departed from this world, but his legacy — embodied in the African Apostolic Church and the countless lives he touched — is set to endure for generations to come.
Source- ZBC
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