The relationship between ZANU PF and the Apostolic Sect continues to deepen, with leaders from both sides describing the partnership as a significant force in pushing community-focused development across Zimbabwe. The alliance, which has grown steadily over the years, was once again highlighted at a gathering in Harare on Saturday, where senior government officials and church leaders emphasised their shared commitment to advancing social services, particularly in health and education.
Speaking during the event, ZANU PF politburo member and Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Harare Metropolitan Province, Senator Charles Tavengwa, said the collaboration between the ruling party and the Apostolic Sect had matured beyond political dialogue and was now anchored in practical efforts to uplift communities.
He noted that the Apostolic Sect has increasingly played a visible role in addressing social service gaps, especially by supporting initiatives that improve access to education and healthcare. According to Senator Tavengwa, such efforts align with the government’s broader development agenda, which aims to ensure that no community is left behind as the country pursues inclusive socio-economic growth.
“We are happy that our relationship goes beyond politics and translates to empowerment of the people,” Senator Tavengwa said. “We have witnessed the Apostolic Sect taking a leading role in sectors such as education and health, and that is what we want because we do not want to leave anyone and any place behind.”
He added that the continued partnership reflects a shared vision for national development. As Zimbabwe works to expand public infrastructure and improve service delivery, the complementary role of community-based organisations—religious groups included—has become increasingly important.
ZANU PF Harare Province Chairperson Cde Godwills Masimirembwa echoed the sentiment, praising the Apostolic Sect for challenging long-standing stereotypes and demonstrating that religious groups can be active contributors to national development. Masimirembwa said the sect’s participation in community projects shows how collective effort can accelerate progress in key sectors.
ZANU PF Strengthens Collaboration With Apostolic Sect to Boost Community Development
“Working together is a noble idea because it is not just for political purposes, but for an empowered society,” he said. “As a party, we are proud of how far the Apostolic Sect has come to defy stereotypes and show others that you can be useful in the developmental trajectory that this country has taken.”
Over the years, many Apostolic groups have faced misconceptions about their involvement in civic matters, especially regarding education, health, and child welfare. However, leaders from the Vapotsori and Mazion for Economic Development organisations say they are determined to rewrite this narrative. Their focus, they say, is on demonstrating through action that the sect can play a constructive role in shaping community welfare.
Madzibaba Moses Gwasarira, chairperson of Vapotsori and Mazion for Economic Development, said the church is prioritising long-term development projects designed not only to uplift congregants but also to benefit wider communities.
“As the church, we are working towards changing a long-standing narrative that the Apostolic Sect is not progressive,” Gwasarira said. “We want to empower not just our church members, but our communities as well. We will continue constructing schools and assisting in hospitals because, at the end of the day, we all want an empowered community.”
He explained that development is a shared responsibility and that the sect’s participation in building social infrastructure reflects a commitment to improving everyday life for Zimbabweans. By investing in schools, clinics, and other community spaces, the church aims to complement government efforts and fill critical gaps, especially in underserved areas.
The Apostolic Sect’s involvement in national development has expanded in recent years. Many groups under the sect have taken on roles in constructing classroom blocks, donating materials to rural clinics, and partnering with local authorities on sanitation and water projects. These initiatives have been welcomed by communities that often face limited access to essential services.
For ZANU PF, the cooperation aligns with its broader strategy of encouraging grassroots organisations to take part in nation-building efforts. Party leaders say the collective strength of political institutions, religious communities, and civic groups can accelerate development across all ten provinces.
As Zimbabwe continues working toward its vision of improved livelihoods and equitable service delivery, the partnership between the ruling party and the Apostolic Sect is expected to grow further. Both sides have expressed confidence that their collaboration will continue to produce tangible benefits, especially in areas where infrastructure gaps remain a challenge.
The renewed commitment from both the party and the sect underscores a shared belief that community development is most effective when supported by diverse stakeholders. In the coming months, leaders from both groups say they will continue engaging in programmes designed to uplift families, strengthen local institutions, and ensure that progress reaches every corner of the country.
Source- ZBC
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
