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The Traditional Medical Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (TMPCZ) has directed all traditional healers and faith healers to be registered for them to continue practising.
This comes after the Ministry of Health and Child Care directed faith healers and herbalists from both churches and traditional religion to obtain licences for their operations.
In a recent statement, TMPCZ directed unregistered Traditional Health Practitioners to register in their respective provinces. Reads the statement:
The Traditional Medical Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe (TMPCZ) hereby gives notice to all unregistered Traditional Health Practitioners to go and register in their respective provinces. The required categories are:
<blockquote>
1. Traditional Healers/Faith Healers, including Prophets and Apostles/Bishops/Traditional Birth Attendants/Spirit Mediums
2. Churches
3. Local and Foreign Traditional Medical Associations
4. Associations representing all categories of different practitioners
5. Herbalists/Herbal Gardens/Traditional Wholesalers/Shops
6. Distributors/Manufacturers of Traditional Medicine
7. Traditional Surgeries/Clinics
8. Training Institutions
The council kindly informs Practitioners that it is a legal requirement to register with the TMPCZ in terms of the Traditional Medical Practitioners Act Chapter 27:14 (Act 38/1981, 6/2000(s. 151), 22/2001 (s. 4), 14/2022 (s. 42)).
Chapter 27:14 Part VI Section 31 stipulates that a person who practices or carries the business as a traditional medical practitioner without being registered is liable to a fine not exceeding (US$400.00) or imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years or to both such fine and such imprisonment.
Traditional Medical Practitioners Council of Zimbabwe is a public entity under the purview of the Ministry of Health and Child Care.
We expect that by the end of March 2023, all legal abiding practitioners will have paid their practicing licenses.
</blockquote>

Pindula News

Unregistered Healing Pastors, Spirit Mediums Risk Imprisonment

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Apostolic_Faith_Mission_in_Zimbabwe">Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFM)</a> has deferred the Youth Conference that was scheduled to be held at Rufaro Conference Centre in Masvingo in April.
In a notice seen by Pindula News, the church said the move is one of the strategies adopted to counter the negative impact of low revenue inflows. Reads the notice sent to all Provincial Chairmen, Provincial Secretaries, Provincial Overseers, and Provincial Treasurers:
<blockquote>
<h2>NATIONAL LEVIES AND FUNDRAISING</h2>
Calvary Greetings. 
Due to the challenges faced by the Church over the past three years which include a barrage of court battles setting up of new structures, clearance of legacy issues and so forth, the Church was not in a good position to mobilize adequate financial resources to meet all its obligations and has in some instances, been inevitably lagging behind on meeting its commitments.
At its recent meeting, the National Executive Board noted that the revenues being generated and remitted to the Consolidated Revenue Fund, are currently below expected levels, and not covering all the costs of the Church. It is against this background that the National Executive Board resolved to take some drastic measures to counter the negative impact of the above and implement a program of interventions for the purpose of extinguishing the growing debt burden and re-align costs to income levels. 
Some of the interventions approved for implementation by the Board include: 
a) Deferring March/April Provincial Spiritual Conferences, the National Youth Conference and National Ladies Conference. The rationale for the deferment is to reduce the impact of levies of these conferences on the revenue generation efforts of Assemblies. Separate communication will be issued with details of when these conferences have been rescheduled from the relevant offices. 
b) Implementation of an urgent manpower audit with a view to rationalize the number of the Church’s employees. 
c) Wage freeze in USD under the current wage levels. 
The Board has further resolved that all Provinces shall be levied an amount based on the principle of equity, to raise the required funding according to the attached schedule. 
We regret any inconveniences caused by the changes, which we anticipate will yield long-term benefits to the Church and key stakeholders. We appeal to all Provincial Boards and Leadership to ensure that the levied amounts are collected and remitted promptly. We look forward to the unwavering support of our formidable Church Membership to overcome this temporary challenge. Your efforts in this endeavour are greatly appreciated. 
</blockquote>
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

No Rufaro: AFM In Zimbabwe Defers Youth Conference

The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe Domboramwari Assembly Sunday service degenerated into chaos yesterday after congregants blocked the introduction of a new resident pastor.
<a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/congregants-disrupt-church-service-force-pastor-to-leave-pulpit/">H-Metro</a> reported that a provincial church leader, identified as Pastor Hungwe, was heckled by church members and told to leave the pulpit while introducing the new pastor.
Irate church members waved placards written, “We want Chazika”, “Leave politics to politicians, kana vafundisi venyu vasina mabasa, ngavatsvage mabasa”.
Pastor Hungwe preached briefly before announcing that he had been sent to introduce a new resident pastor.
He said the incumbent, Pastor Pride Chazika, had been reassigned to the Stoneridge Assembly. Said Pastor Hungwe:
<blockquote>
We serve a God of seasons. Today I have come to announce a message from the provincial headquarters about a new pastor who will take you through this season.
</blockquote>
Some people believed to have been hired to disturb the announcement then disrupted the announcement and confronted Pastor Hungwe and forced him to leave the pulpit.
They waved placards and chanted words of protest, demanding that Pastor Chazika be retained.
The Domboramwari Assembly chairperson called for order to give Pastor Hungwe a chance to respond to the congregants’ demands. He said:
<blockquote>
Thank you for understanding. As children of God, since we are of the same faith and church, I have heard your message and I will take it as it is to the province.
I cannot say it is good or bad, but I will present it to the provincial leadership as it is that you do not want Pastor Chazika to be removed from this assembly.
</blockquote>
The new pastor and his wife, who were awaiting to be presented to the church, walked away as congregants continued to protest.
A senior church member claimed that Pastor Chazika was being persecuted. Said the congregant:
It doesn’t mean that we are against you, but the church leadership failed to address the matter of Pastor Chazika.
<blockquote>
Pastor Chazika has been reassigned to Stoneridge, not as a routine change, but as punishment for reprimanding one of the church board members’ wife for misbehaving at a meeting in Masvingo.
He was humiliated last Tuesday over this and forced to pack his belongings. He cried as he was not even allowed to say goodbye to his flock. That is unacceptable, musatambe nesu muchidaro.
Pastor Chazika has been with us for two years only and another pastor was also removed from here for preaching the true gospel and calling a spade a spade.
If we continue to allow leadership to treat people and junior pastors in this manner, we will also be held accountable for not defending their rights and instead siding with lies.
</blockquote>
Pastor Hungwe told the Assembly that he will return with the provincial leadership’s decision next Sunday.

AFM Congregants Heckle Pastor, Force Him To Leave Pulpit

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints working with the government on Friday handed over a maternity facility at Mbembesi clinic in Insuza to the community. The facility cost US$230 000 to build.
The building work on the site started in July with support from the Rural Based Fund (RBF) and the church took over the construction of the maternity shelter in 2022.
The shelter comprises a delivery room and post-natal area complete with furnishings, showers, toilets, a sluice room, a hot water geyser and solar power.
Medical equipment which includes a prenatal scanner and various other equipment was also donated.
The church also replaced walls and ceilings, refurbished the interior and exterior of existing buildings, and repaired toilets and plumbing.
Speaking during the handover of the Clinic, the Church Representative, president Mzingaye Ndlovu said:
<blockquote>
When we got here, we inquired what we can do to assist in finishing up the clinic.
There was a clinic block that we assisted in finishing up and we started other blocks.
We built houses for the clinic staff and we also put JoJo tanks.
We put a solar system that is not only powering Mbembesi clinic but it’s connected in a way that it feeds to the ZESA grid to assist other communities.
</blockquote>
Minister of State for Matabeleland North and Provincial Affairs, Richard Moyo, commended the church for building the maternity shelter.
He said the construction of the maternity shelter was the fourth project the church has done in Umguza. | <a href="https://cite.org.zw/church-constructs-maternity-facility-at-mbembesi-clinic/">CITE</a>

Church Constructs Maternity Facility At Clinic In Umguza

The government of Mozambique has reportedly banned the Johane Marange Apostolic Sect in the Central Province of Manica for allegedly encouraging child marriage and disregarding health issues.
The Johane Marange Apostolic Sect first emerged in Manicaland Province in neighbouring Zimbabwe, where it has been operating for a decade.
Albachir Macassar, the National Director of Justice, Constitutional and Religious Affairs, was reported as saying the Ministry has also banned some religious institutions with “obscure purposes” in the southern Province of Inhambane. Said Macassar:
<blockquote>
To discipline some behaviour and excesses of certain religious denominations, a draft Law on Religious Freedom and Worship is under discussion to regulate the exercise of this activity in Mozambique.
</blockquote>
During the interview with Radio Mozambique, Macassar insisted that the government of Mozambique is not interfering with religious worship.
He said the government only seeks to direct and discipline religious organisations.
Macassar said under the draft law, those who want to establish new churches must have a certificate in theology.
He added that if they are leaving an existing congregation, they must have a letter of disaffiliation or recommendation. Said Macassar:
<blockquote>
They must possess a letter of recommendation from the top leader of the previous religious grouping, attesting to their suitability to found another congregation.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://clubofmozambique.com/news/mozambique-government-bans-doubtful-churches-including-johane-marange-sect-232276/">Club Of Mozambique</a>

Mozambique Govt Bans Johane Marange Sect Over Child Marriages | Report

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Apostolic_Faith_Mission_in_Zimbabwe">Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe</a>‘s national chairman, Retired Reverend Jemitias Chivhenge has died.
AFM leader, President Amon D. Madawo made the announcement on Wednesday evening. He said:
<blockquote>
Good evening hama dzagu. It is with a heavy heart that I announce that our National Chairman Rev J Chivhenge has passed on to glory.
</blockquote>
Details about his death are still unknown.
He has been the national board chairman of AFM in Zimbabwe since the inception of the amended constitution in 2018.

It’s sad again to announce that we lost Gogo Shumbambiri yesterday. She was the wife of the late Rev Albert Shumbambiri who was a brother to our National Nec Rev Chivhenge
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

AFM In Zimbabwe National Chair Rev Chivhenge Has Died

A Church of England statement today has said it will uphold its position that marriage is only between a man and a woman and would not let same-sex couples wed in its churches.
The development follows the Church of England’s six-year consultation on sexuality and marriage, among other topics. The proposals were developed by bishops, who make up one of three parts of the church’s governing body known as the General Synod. They will be presented to the General Synod at a meeting next month.
The Church of England is the mother church of the international Anglican churches which includes more than 85 million people in more than 165 nations. These include the Anglican in Zimbabwe and its followers.
The statement confirmed a BBC story from the previous night that bishops had declined to endorse a change in teaching to permit priests to marry homosexual couples. “Same-sex couples would still not be permitted to get married in a Church of England church,” the statement added.
According to announced proposals, same-sex couples who get legally married can attend a religious service where there will be “prayers of dedication, appreciation, or for God’s blessing on the pair.” In 2013, Britain legalized gay marriage.
Said Justin Welby, the Archbishop of Canterbury.
<blockquote>
“I am under no illusions that what we are proposing today will appear to go too far for some and not nearly far enough for others, but it is my hope that what we have agreed will be received in a spirit of generosity, seeking the common good” 
</blockquote>
Meanwhile, according to the statement, the Church of England bishops will be issuing an apology later this week to gay people for the “rejection, exclusion, and hostility” they have faced in churches.

The Anglican Church Of England Refuses To Allow Gay Marriages

United Family International Church (UFIC) founder and leader, Emmanuel Makandiwa, has said he has never bought an expensive car nor built an expensive house in his life.
Makandiwa said this while responding to people on social media platforms who had commented on his latest acquisition, a luxurious BMW 7-Series reportedly worth US$300 000.
Videos of the maroon BMW driving out of his Chishawasha Hills mansion along Enterprise Road sparked debate on social media.
Addressing his followers, Makandiwa said apart from preaching, he has a lot of products that help him make money. He said:
<blockquote>
How do I respond to people when someone asks, what do you think of a prophet who buys an expensive car?
If I had to tell you what to say, you are not the right person to defend me. I would rather have that person ask me because I have never in my life bought an expensive car. If it was expensive, I would not have even bought it.
I don’t know what is wrong with people, I have only bought cheap cars, and I have only built cheap houses.
The problem is it is expensive for you. It’s your money that you want to use to buy what I have bought.
So, the term expensive, whose term is that? I am smart enough to know when the product is expensive and I will not buy it because I can’t.
Have I stopped sending my children to school because of a house that I have built? So vara rekuti expensive ririkubva kupi?
</blockquote>
Makandiwa urged people to mind their own business and not poke their noses into other people’s business. He said:
<blockquote>
Why do you think about people’s money? Some people think that all we do is preach; we are good at preaching.
Mwachewe tikapinda mumabhindauko tinobata basa sebasa. We have a lot of products to sell.
Why? Because money is everywhere there is a problem. Where there is a problem, there is money. Ibva munyaya dzevanhu.
</blockquote>
| <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/i-only-buy-cheap-cars-makandiwa/">H-Metro</a>

'It's Expensive For You, Not For Me', Makandiwa Speaks On His New Luxurious Car

The late 14-year-old Delight Masomeke, who died on Tuesday in Buhera after labour complications, was in a polygamous marriage involving another girl of her age, it has emerged.
Delight, who will be laid to rest today at her family home in Chivhu, dropped out of school and got married before completing Grade Seven, according to <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/girl-14-dies-after-birth-related-complications/">NewsDay Weekender</a>.
 Her husband from the Johane Marange sect is currently on the run.  
Zimbabwean laws criminalise the marriage of girls below the age of 18.
Police would release a detailed statement on the matter, NewsDay reported citing national police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi. He is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
We are yet to receive a full report from police in Manicaland,” Nyathi said. “Once we get the information we will release a detailed statement.
</blockquote>
An unnamed police source told the publication that investigations carried out so far revealed that Delight’s husband had three wives. The source said:
<blockquote>
Delight was the second wife and the third wife is 14 years old also. However, her husband’s whereabouts are still unknown. He resided in Chivhu together with his three wives.
</blockquote>
Johanne Marange sect allows polygamous marriages but claims that it does not allow child marriages. 
In 2021 when <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Anna_Machaya">Anna Machaya</a>, another 14-year-old girl died during childbirth at a church shrine, <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/johanne-marange-apostolic-church-apologises-over-anna-machayas-death/">the church released a statement</a> saying it does not allow child marriages. Reads in part the statement earlier published by Pindula News:
<blockquote>
But, we want to make it clear that our church abides and respect the laws of our government.
Our leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Noah_Taguta">High Priest Noah Taguta</a> (the late) and the followers of the church, we all respect the laws that govern Zimbabwe. We have high respect to our government and as a church, we also have our laws that clearly state that girls under the age of 18 are not married.
We make it a point that in every preaching sermon, our priests always preach the word against child marriages. It is one of our church doctrines that is against the practise of child marriages.
</blockquote>
Rights activists have raised a red flag on the increase in maternal deaths involving children and underage women from the sect.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

New Details Emerge On 14-year-old Zimbabwean Mother Who Died After Labour Complications

A United Methodist Church Reverend (pastor) escaped serious injury after congregants ushered him out of the church during a fracas involving his relatives.
Reverend Blessing Saunyama (pictured), who is in charge of the United Methodist Church’s Stream View Circuit in Chikanga, Mutare, was conducting a service when his relatives stormed the church.
Eyewitnesses told The Manica Post that Saunyama’s relatives arrived at the church around midday and demanded to be given a chance to air their grievances against the reverend.
They accused the man of the cloth of causing mayhem in the family through ungodly acts, bordering on wizardry.
Local church elders reportedly blocked Saunyama’s relatives from reaching the pulpit and they responded by shouting obscenities and threatening to assault the reverend.
The Reverend’s relatives accused him of causing the death of several family members. Said a congregant:
<blockquote>
Rev Saunyama was whisked out of the church by congregants as the marauding group was baying for his blood.
Some are alleging that he received a few blows from the angry men, but I did not see it.
What I know is that church elders are the ones who ended up receiving beatings from the relatives who were angry that they (elders) had helped Rev Saunyama escape.
Something serious would have happened if the group had managed to corner Rev Saunyama as they were seething with anger.
</blockquote>
Another church member said police had to be called in to quell the disturbances. She said:
<blockquote>
They said something about having come from Mutasa or Nyanga, I do not remember very well.
They shouted obscenities and accused the reverend of causing deaths within their family.
They were just livid. Police had to be called in to quell the disturbances.
</blockquote>
Reverend Saunyama, however, denied allegations that he was beaten up by his relatives. He said:
<blockquote>
I was never beaten up. Nobody touched me during the disturbances. I am okay emotionally and physically.
</blockquote>
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson in Manicaland Province, Inspector Nobert Muzondo, said the report about the incident had not yet reached his office. | <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/relatives-attack-reverend-in-church/">The Manica Post</a>

Methodist Reverend Assaulted During Church Service

Acting President General (Rtd) Constantino Chiwenga on Thursday, 5 January, signed a book of condolence at the Vatican embassy in Harare for the late former Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI.
The former head of the Roman Catholic Church died on 31 December 2022 aged 95 years.
Speaking after signing the book of condolences, Chiwenga said the late Pope Benedict will be remembered for his love for humanity. Chiwenga said:
<blockquote>
Pope Benedict was known mainly for his two cardinal principles, peace and love for humanity and so we are motivated by that.
I think the rest of what he has done from when he went into the priesthood in Germany, his missionary work right up to when he ended up in Rome at the Vatican and eventually becoming the Pope, the head of the Catholic Church, is well documented and we thank God that he has been given that life up to the age of 95. So it is a long life and we celebrate it.
</blockquote>
Born Joseph Aloisius Ratzinger of German parents, Pope Benedict passed away almost a decade after he stood down in 2013 because of failing health.
He became the first Pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415. He had reigned for almost eight years.
He spent his final years at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery within the walls of the Vatican where he passed away.
His body has been lying in state at St. Peter’s Basilica where he was set to be buried on Thursday. | <a href="https://newziana.co.zw/2023/01/05/acting-president-chiwenga-consoles-catholic-church/">New Ziana</a>

Chiwenga Consoles Roman Catholic Church

Former Pope Benedict XVI has died at his Vatican residence, aged 95, almost a decade after he stood down because of ailing health, according to the Vatican. The Vatican said in a statement:
<blockquote>
With sorrow, I inform you that the Pope Emeritus, Benedict XVI, passed away today at 9:34 in the Mater Ecclesiae Monastery in the Vatican.
Further information will be provided as soon as possible.
</blockquote>
His death on Saturday came days after his successor <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/former-pontiff-benedict-xvi-is-very-ill-pope-francis/">Pope Francis had asked for prayers for his predecessor, saying he was “very sick”.</a>
He died in his residence at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery which he had chosen as his residence after resigning in 2013, <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/12/31/pope-emeritus-benedict-xvi-dies-at-age-95">Al Jazeera</a> reported citing the Holy See Press Office.
He led the Catholic Church for less than eight years until, in 2013, he became the first Pope to resign since Gregory XII in 1415.
Benedict spent his final years at the Mater Ecclesiae monastery within the walls of the Vatican.
His successor Pope Francis said he had visited him there frequently.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Former Pope Benedict XVI Has Died

Pope Francis said Wednesday that former pontiff Benedict XVI, 95, is “very ill”, and urged people to pray for him before going to be by his side, according to AFP.
Benedict, who in 2013 became the first pontiff to resign in six centuries, has been in increasingly frail health. Speaking at the end of his general audience at the Vatican, Francis said:
<blockquote>
I would like to ask all of you to pray a special prayer for Pope Emeritus Benedict.
Remember him, because he is very ill, asking the Lord to console and support him.
</blockquote>
A short while later, the Vatican confirmed Benedict’s health has worsened “in the last few hours” and said Francis visited him after his audience. Spokesman Matteo Bruni said in a statement:
<blockquote>
In the last few hours there has been a deterioration due to advancing age.
The situation at the moment remains under control, monitored continually by doctors.
</blockquote>
Benedict had cited his declining physical and mental health back in 2013 in his decision to become the first pope since 1415 to stand down as head of the worldwide Catholic church.
The former pope whose real name is Joseph Ratzinger, has since lived a quiet life in a former convent inside the Vatican.
Benedict was 78 when he succeeded the long-reigning and popular John Paul II in April 2005.
He stepped down in February 2013 in an announcement delivered to cardinals in Latin, later saying the decision was the result of a mystical experience.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

"Former Pontiff Benedict XVI Is "Very Ill" - Pope Francis

The head of the Roman Catholic Church, Pope Francis on Sunday appealed for an end to the “senseless” war in Ukraine, in his traditional Christmas Day message broadcast around the world.
The Pope addressed thousands of people gathered in St Peter’s Square, some of them holding Ukrainian flags.
Delivering his message from the central balcony of St Peter’s Basilica, the 86-year-old on Sunday first turned to “our Ukrainian brothers and sisters who are experiencing this Christmas in the dark and cold, far from their homes”. He added;
<blockquote>
May the Lord inspire us to offer concrete gestures of solidarity to assist all those who are suffering, and may he enlighten the minds of those who have the power to silence the thunder of weapons and put an immediate end to this senseless war.
… The war in Ukraine has further aggravated this situation, putting entire peoples at risk of famine, especially in Afghanistan and in the countries of the Horn of Africa.
We know that every war causes hunger and exploits food as a weapon, hindering its distribution to people already suffering.
On this day, let us learn from the Prince of Peace (Christ) and, starting with those who hold political responsibilities, commit ourselves to make food solely an instrument of peace.
</blockquote>
On Saturday evening, the Pope led the traditional Christmas Eve mass at St Peter’s Basilica, using a wheelchair as he continues to struggle with knee pain.
Meanwhile, the Vatican put the crowd Sunday at 70 000, while 7 000 people attended Saturday evening’s mass, with more following the service on screens outside. | <a href="https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2022/12/25/pope-urges-end-to-senseless-ukraine-war-in-christmas-message">Al Jazeera</a>

Pope Urges End To "Senseless" Ukraine War

A Harare-based self-styled prophet cost some of his football-betting followers their hard-earned cash after making a false prediction of Sunday’s World Cup final result.
Tinashe Michael Sello of Christ Celebration International Ministries told his followers who bet, to place their bet on France.
He claimed before his congregation that France would beat Argentina 1-0 to win the World Cup.
However, Argentina beat France 4-2 on penalties after the match had ended 3-3 after extra time.
In a video that has been circulating on social media platforms, Sello, who calls himself “The Ultimate”, said Argentina would play a defensive game.
He added that France would penetrate Argentina’s defensive lines and score before parking the bus to win the final.
It was in fact, France that parked the bus from the onset of the match and had to come from behind twice, first to make it 2-2 and then 3-3 before losing 4-2 during penalties after extra time.
Reports claimed that Sello had closed his church following his wrong prediction and some of his followers were reportedly threatening to withdraw their membership from his church.
When H-Metro called Sello to clarify his false prediction on Monday, his personal assistant, who refused to identify herself, said:
<blockquote>
The prophet is in a meeting right now. If you are in Harare, come to church on Saturday, but if you want to see him personally come and pay US$300 for booking at our offices in Southerton.
</blockquote>
Sello’s church holds services at Kingstone House along Kwame Nkrumah Avenue.
Sello’s PA later said he was not reachable and promised to give information about the next church service. | <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/prophet-under-fire-over-world-cup-results-prophet-of-shame-church-closed-congregants-angry/">H-Metro</a>

Self-styled Prophet "Misleads" Congregants After Predicting A France World Cup Victory

The Bulawayo City Council planning a clampdown on open-air churches across the city in response to complaints by residents of noise pollution.
Speaking at a full council meeting last week, Bulawayo deputy mayor Mlandu Ncube said:
<blockquote>
The city is now dominated by flags of different churches. They are spreading cholera because they are using the bush as ablution facilities. I am saying let’s remove these churches from the city.
</blockquote>
Ward 4 Councillor Silas Chigora said the problem should be dealt with once and for all. Chigora said:
<blockquote>
We are shocked whether it’s worshipping or money-spinning activities, let’s write to these churches to say they should vacate those sites.
Let us (also) engage someone like a debt collector who will go around removing these people because I am tired of the complaints of these churches.
My community respects the environment, they respect trees, they respect rocks, they respect hills and mountains.
Let’s engage someone to round up these churches just like we did in George Silundika, let’s do that and deal with this problem once and for all.
</blockquote>
Ward 27 councillor Alderman Siboniso Khumalo said the churches should apply for stands to construct places of worship.
Recently, Churches Council of Africa (CCA) founder and president Rocky Moyo said local authorities were demanding large amounts of money. | <a href="https://businesstimes.co.zw/council-plots-crackdown-on-open-air-churches/">Business Times</a>

Bulawayo Council Plans Crackdown On Open Air Churches

The Zimbabwe Gender Commission (ZGC) says the government should regulate churches to combat sexual offences against girls within some religious sects.
ZGC chairperson Margaret Sangarwe-Mukahanana on Tuesday told <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200004651/regulate-churches-zgc-urges-govt">NewsDay</a> that although churches are currently voluntary organisations that are not regulated, there is a need for authorities to intervene to end the sexual abuse of minors. She said:
<blockquote>
Churches are voluntary organisations and they are unregulated. There is no code of conduct which governs them, and it is difficult to monitor sexual offences at churches lest we are told that we are infringing on the fundamental rights of worship and association.
However, if we want to arrest the scourge of child marriages and sexual offences, there should be at least some regulations that govern churches.
</blockquote>
Sexual offences at religious places such as Apostolic faith sect shrines and churches have been on the rise over the years.
Under the new Marriages Act, the minimum age of marriage is 18 years for both girls and boys. It is, therefore, a crime to marry off a child and anyone involved in that will be prosecuted.
According to a 2019 survey by the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, 33% of women reported that they were married before reaching the adult age of 18.

Gender Commission Urges Govt To Regulate Churches

The grave of the founder of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/African_Apostolic_Church_of_John_Maranke">Johane Marange Apostolic</a> sect was allegedly tampered with over the weekend in a suspected ritual case.
This comes amid a continued fight within the family of the late <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Johane_Marange">Johane Muchabaya Momberume</a> over control of one of the country’s largest apostolic sects.
Clements Momberume, the late founder’s eldest surviving son, through his lawyer Passmore Nyakureba of Maunga Maanda and Associates said he filed a report at Marange Police Station.
The security fence at the late founder’s grave was allegedly uprooted by some of the family members and dumped at Clements’ homestead in Marange, NewsDay reported citing Momberume’s lawyer. He is quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
We have just filed a police report at Marange Police Station after a perimeter security fence at the late founder Muchabaya Momberume was uprooted and we also found some tampering with his grave.
We were at Marange Police Station together with my client, Clements Momberume.
</blockquote>
Clements is said to have unveiled the tombstone on his late father’s grave and erected a perimeter fence where his brother, Abel Momberume is also buried at Chinyamukumba burial site.
Other family members were, however, reportedly against the erection of the perimeter fence because they want free access to the grave to perform rituals.
The wrangle in the sect started in early 2022 following the <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/johane-marange-leader-noah-taguta-momberume-dies/">death of another </a>leader <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Noah_Taguta">Noah Taguta</a> who was believed to be 90 years old.
Clements Momberume challenged in court the burial of Noah Taguta at the Chinyamukumba mountain range.
The High Court granted him an interim order barring the burial of Taguta at the sacred shrine in Mafararikwa village. Taguta was buried on the same day that Clements received a favourable judgment.
Noah Taguta was the son of Arnold Momberume, who was an elder brother to the founder, Johane Momberume.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Johane Marange Apostolic Sect Founder's Grave Tampered With In A Suspected Ritual Case

Two toddlers died during a baptism ceremony at Kubatanakwashe Faith Fellowship Church along Save River in Chipinge last Friday.
The church is located at Ndunduma Village in the Chibuwe area under Chief Musikavanhu.
The two children from the same village died soon after consuming the concoction that had allegedly been prepared by the church leader, Pedzanai Masapa during the church service.
The two children were identified as Taurai Zituta-Sithole (one) and Raymond Bote (11 months) and were both buried on Tuesday.
<a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/toddlers-die-during-baptism/">The Manica Post </a>reported sources as saying Masapa had prophesied that something bad would happen to the Ndunduma children unless they were baptised.
Deputy Manicaland provincial Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Wiseman Chinyoka confirmed the incident. He said:
<blockquote>
On November 25, Shangurai Chifadza (23) and Miriam Zvuihari (22) of Ndunduma Village went to attend a church service at Kubatanakwashe Faith Fellowship Church shrine in the same village.
The church leader, Pedzanai Masapa (43) of Masimbe Village told the congregants to go for baptism along Save River.
While at the river, Masapa prepared a concoction which was a mixture of milk, flour, and coarse salt, and made the children drink it before their baptism. This was according to their church doctrine.
Before giving the minors the concoction to drink, Masapa prayed for the mixture and drank it first. He gave it to 10 infants who were present.
However, a few minutes later, the two minors, Raymond Bote and Taurai Zituta-Sithole started producing froth from their mouths.
They were rushed to their homes and died upon arrival. The matter was reported to the police who attended the scene.
The bodies were taken to Chipinge District Hospital for post-mortem.
</blockquote>
One of the bereaved parents, Mwadhana Zituta-Sithole, told The Manica Post that post-mortem results revealed that there was no poisoning. He said:
<blockquote>
My wife and our late son went to Kubatanakwashe Faith Fellowship Church for prayers together with other members of the community.
On this fateful day, our child looked fine, but I was surprised to see my wife returning home around 4 PM saying the boy had collapsed at church.
We tried everything to resuscitate him, but God had other ways and he died.
I cannot attribute his death to the concoction they were made to drink at the church.
There are some issues rocking the church that need urgent addressing. The matter is before the traditional leadership.
The church leader, Masapa, prophesied that a calamity would befall our children and this has come to pass.
</blockquote>
The local traditional leader, Mutape Nzeka said the community elders will discuss how to cleanse the area.

Two Toddlers Die During Baptism Ceremony

The government says it will establish a fund that will be used to compensate people who will have been attacked by wild animals.
The Human-Wildlife Conflict Relief Fund for Victims in Zimbabwe will cover death, maiming, and injuries.
Addressing reporters following a cabinet meeting in Harare on Tuesday, Information Minister Monica Mutsvangwa attributed cases of human-wildlife conflict to competition for limited resources between humans and animals. She said:
This year alone, as of August 2022, 46 Zimbabwean lives have been lost to human-wildlife conflict.
<blockquote>
With the most affected being Mashonaland West where 19 people were killed, mostly in Kariba.
Regionally, Zimbabwe has the highest number of deaths from human-wildlife conflict.
Accordingly, the government has adopted the establishment of a relief fund to cushion the victims of human-wildlife conflict by way of funeral assistance and an amount paid towards hospitalisation and treatment with a set limit.
The payments will cover three categories, namely death, maiming and injuries. A specialised human-wildlife conflict unit will be established under the department of parks and wildlife.
Mutsvangwa said in 1980, Zimbabwe had an elephant population of 50,000, while the human population was 7.4 million.
</blockquote>
The elephant population has grown to more than 85,000 and the human population has more than doubled to 15 million. Said Mutsvangwa:
<blockquote>
The consequent competition for limited resources often results in wildlife attacks on humans, especially in communal areas and towns that are close to national parks, safaris, forests and other protected areas.
Consequently, people living adjacent to wildlife areas are always in danger of being attacked by animals, and it has been established that the frequency of such attacks is increasing.
</blockquote>
Mutsvangwa said the fund shall be self-financing, with proceeds expected to come from hunting revenues. | <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/2022/11/wildlife-victims-to-be-compensated-under-human-wildlife-conflict-fund/">ZimLive</a>

Wildlife Victims To Be Compensated From Special Fund

The Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFM) held the Greater Harare Conference at the Glamis Arena from 21 to 23 October 2022 during which the church’s president Reverend <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amon_Madawo">Amon Madawo</a> called for Reconciliation, Healing and Unity amongst members of the church and the nation at large. Below are pictures from the Conference which was also attended by captains of industry, Harare Mayor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mafume">Jacob Mafume</a> and thousands of congregants.
<h2>Pindula News</h2>

AFM In Zimbabwe Greater Harare Conference In Pictures

The president of the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Apostolic_Faith_Mission_in_Zimbabwe">Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFM)</a>, Reverend <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amon_Madawo">Amon Madawo</a> Saturday 22 October 2022 said his church was not at war with the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/AFM_of_Zimbabwe">AFM of Zimbabwe</a> led by Reverend Cossam Chiangwa.
AFM of Zimbabwe <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/06/15/afm-president-madawo-moves-to-bar-chiangwa-from-using-name-logo-symbols/">was formed in May 2021</a> after the Chiangwa-led faction <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/28/supreme-court-upholds-high-court-ruling-in-afm-saga/">lost a court case</a> which followed a prolonged leadership wrangle that was triggered by the amendment of the church’s Constitution.
Speaking on Saturday at the Greater Harare Conference held at the Glamis Arena from 21 to 23 October 2022, AFM president, Madawo called for Reconciliation, Healing and Unity amongst members of the church and the nation at large.
He urged church members to desist from “selfish agendas that affect the body of Christ,” adding that every member of the AFM church must act in a way that promotes peace, family unity, and love for the Lord, country, and church.
He also urged the gathering to keep praying for Zimbabwe. He said:
<blockquote>
Vaya vakabva muchechi ino vakanotanga yavo ina OF havasi vavengi veAFM in Zimbabwe [Those who left <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Apostolic_Faith_Mission_in_Zimbabwe">AFM In Zimbabwe</a> and formed <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/AFM_of_Zimbabwe">AFM Of Zimbabwe</a> are not our enemies]. We’re not at war with anyone. Let’s pray for them and keep loving them…
Greater city conferences like this one, are intended to bring about revival, healing and to realign the church to focus on its core business of winning souls to Christ, which is the main mission of the church. We’ve so far managed to hold three city conferences namely, Greater Manicaland, Greater CHivhu and Greater Bulawayo. 
These conferences have gone a long way to bring restoration, reconciliation, healing and revival in the church. This trajectory will continue until we finish all our provinces. Come March 2023 we will be meeting or we’ll be having the Greater Midlands Conference. 
</blockquote>
Also speaking at the event that was graced by Harare Mayor, Councillor <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Jacob_Mafume">Jacob Mafume,</a> Father Moyo leader of the Catholic Churches in Zimbabwe applauded AFM “for winning souls to God”. 
He, however, bemoaned divisions among Christians which he said were dividing the body of Christ.
Moyo said there was a need for unity and dialogue adding that individuals, inducing church leaders must prioritise uplifting the name of God, and not theirs.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Rev Amon Madawo Says AFM In Zimbabwe Is Not At War With AFM Of Zimbabwe

The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe will hold the Greater Harare Conference this weekend from Friday to Sunday.
Greater Harare is made up of AFM In Zimbabwe congregants from Harare, Chitungwiza and Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East and Mashonaland West provinces.
Several top gospel artists, among them Mathias Mhere, Dorcas Moyo, Jonah Chivasa, Joyful Praise and the National Praise team, will perform at the event which will be held at Glamis Arena at the Exhibition Park.
AFM in Zimbabwe president Amon Madawo told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/top-gospel-acts-for-afm-conference/">The Herald</a> that the main aim of the conference is to bring healing and revival to the members of the church. He said:
<blockquote>
We have so far held Greater Manicaland, Greater Chivhu and Greater Bulawayo conferences.
March 2023 will see us holding Greater Midlands for all the congregants from Gokwe and surrounding areas and Midlands province at large.
The main thrust of these conferences is to bring part and parcel of healing and revival to the members of the AFM.
In addition, preparing the members and refocusing the church on her mission and mandate will be key.
Thus in addition brings the attention of the members to prepare for the second coming of Jesus Christ.
</blockquote>
Madawo said the Bishop of Pentecostal Assemblies who is also in the Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe, Bishop Never Muparutsa, will be the guest speaker.
He said AFM has also invited other church bodies as well as Government officials, the Harare City mayor and captains of industry.
The theme of the conference, “Impacting the World Through the Gospel of the Kingdom” which was derived from Matthew 24 verses 11-14 and Acts 1:8.

Dorcas Moyo To Perform At AFM Greater Harare Conference

Warring Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe (AFM) factions led by Amon Madawo and Cossam Chiangwa have finally buried the hatchet after the latter received recognition from AFM International.
The two factions have agreed to co-exist but using separate names. The Madawo-led faction retains the name Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe while the Chiangwa-led church adopted the Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe name.
The battle to control AFM started in 2018, with the courts later ruling in favour of the Madawo-led faction which allowed it to take control of all church properties.
Speaking during an interview with <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/afm-factions-smoke-the-peace-pipe">The Sunday Mail</a> on Saturday, Chiangwa said he was happy following his faction’s acceptance by AFM International. He said:
<blockquote>
We are happy to say that we have been legitimised by the international body, as it means that we now have firm legal status.
Yes, we lost all properties and we have been worshipping in tents, but we are happy that we still have a large following.
We might not have buildings but we have had Jesus on our side, and it is the same Jesus who has now given us international recognition.
</blockquote>
He said international endorsement has proved that his faction was right in resisting changes to the AFM constitution. Said Chiangwa:
<blockquote>
Reverend Madawo is not a rival, but we did not agree on the amendment of the church’s constitution.
We felt that their stance did not comply with AFM International’s constitution and we have been vindicated.
</blockquote>
Madawo congratulated the Chiangwa-led Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe for getting international recognition. He said:
<blockquote>
AFM in Zimbabwe congratulates the other AFM of Zimbabwe for being accepted to the fellowship of AFM International.
Any decision that enhances and promotes the spread of the gospel of reconciliation and peace is accepted by our congregation.
We do not stand in the way of anyone being endorsed by AFM International.
</blockquote>
At the time of the split of the church in 2018, Madawo held the post of general secretary, while Chiangwa was vice president. Aspher Madziyire was the president.

AFM Factions Finally Make Peace As Madawo Congratulates Chiangwa

The Apostolic Faith Mission of Zimbabwe led by Reverend <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Cossam_Chiangwa">Cossam Chiangwa</a> has been confirmed by Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) International.
Chiangwa told NewsDay in a recent interview.
He vowed that he would not leave AFM saying that’s the church he was brought up in.  Chiangwa said:
<blockquote>
We are AFM. My DNA is AFM. I will never change the birth certificate of the church organisation that I was raised in and called to serve by God. I will remain AFM until Jesus comes, together with all those that choose to worship and serve God under the flagship of the original AFM.
</blockquote>
<h2>Some Context:</h2>
There were differences in the <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Apostolic_Faith_Mission_in_Zimbabwe">Apostolic Faith Mission in Zimbabwe</a> over the proposed Constitutional Amendment (some of the amendments were eventually adopted.)
Chiangwa and his followers were against the amendments while the other side led by AFM in Zimbabwe’s former president, Reverend <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Aspher_Madziyire">Aspher Madziyire</a> pushed for the amendments.
The proposed Amendment, among other things, sought to centralise church funds, and abolish Appreciation (gifts and money given to pastors).
Resultantly, AFM split into two factions in 2018 with the church’s former general-secretary, Reverend <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Amon_Madawo">Amon Madawo</a> leading one, while Chiangwa (the church’s former deputy president) led the other faction.
The matter spilt into courts and Madawo’s side won the case. Chiangwa and his team were ordered to cease using the church name, symbols and properties.
<ul>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/28/supreme-court-upholds-high-court-ruling-in-afm-saga/">Download the</a> full <a href="https://t792ae.c2.acecdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/AFM-COURT-RULING.pdf">AFM COURT RULING (pdf)</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/09/05/high-court-rules-in-favour-of-reformers-in-afm-church-dispute/">High Court Rules In Favour Of Madziyire, Madawo Side In AFM Church Dispute</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2019/09/06/chiangwa-led-afm-faction-reject-high-court-ruling-approach-supreme-court/">Chiyangwa Led AFM Faction Reject High Court Ruling, Approach Supreme Court</a></li>
<li><a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/2021/05/28/afm-saga-rev-madawo-speaks-following-court-victory/">AFM Saga: Rev Madawo Speaks Following Court Victory</a></li>
</ul>
This resulted in the formation of the AFM of Zimbabwe. Notable differences include the direction and colour of the cross on the symbols. While AFM in Zimbabwe’s cross is blue and tilted toward the right, the AFM of Zimbabwe’s is red and tilted toward the left.
AFM of Zimbabwe now uses the Mufaro Conference Centre instead of the Rufaro Conference Centre in Masvingo.
<h2>Importance of AFM International:</h2>
The Apostolic Faith Mission International is the fellowship body where AFM churches worldwide unite. From South Africa, the AFM grew into many countries on the African continent, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America and South America. These international churches of the AFM are linked up through the AFM International to which member countries affiliate. 
When Madawo’s side won the court case, they automatically retained their membership in AFM International. 
In August 2019, the AFMI invited only Madawo to a conference held at Kenyatta University. Chiangwa, regardless of not being invited, travelled for the conference but was stopped from attending meetings.
Therefore, without a bigger or international stage, they affiliate with, the AFM of Zimbabwe would have been isolated or remained a local church. This is captured in Chiangwa’s own words:
<blockquote>
If AFM International had decided to throw me out, we would have remained street kids on the marketplace of churches, with the AFM DNA. We know no other parent.
</blockquote>
It now means both AFM in Zimbabwe and AFM of Zimbabwe are affiliated with AFM International.
<h2><a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a></h2>

Chiangwa-led AFM Of Zimbabwe Confirmed By AFM International

A member of the Johanne Marange Apostolic sect says it is an offence for any of their members to receive medical treatment.
Dorcas Mhere (47), the senior wife of Clever Maveto, said they have been using holy water, salt and cooking oil to cure all her children when they fall ill since the early 1980s.
The Maveto family, from Bikita District in Masvingo Province, is accused of burying children in a mass grave after they allegedly succumbed to measles.
Reports claimed Maveto (67), a polygamist, buried his children, aged one, three and four years – as well as a 10-month-old toddler – under the cover of darkness after they allegedly succumbed to measles-related complications last month.
Maveto has, however, refuted the allegations saying he is prepared to let anyone exhume the bodies to see for themselves that there were no mass graves at his homestead.
Meanwhile, Mhere told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/water-salt-cooking-oil-and-in-other-cases-just-a-bit-of-coca-cola-a-familys-master-prescription-for-illnesses/">H-Metro</a> that she has never been to a hospital and depends on prayers and help from prophets. She said:
<blockquote>
It is not allowed for one to seek medical attention. You just pray for whatever illness you’re facing or consult the prophet for help.
We only use holy water, cooking oil and salt, depending on the prophet’s instructions.
When a child is born, we perform a ritual to protect the baby from measles.
For other ailments, like a running stomach, we use fresh milk and Coca-Cola, to cleanse the body.
</blockquote>
Alice Chiyambiro, Mhere’s sister, said they also use a mixture of lemons, cooking oil and warm water for healing infants with fontanelle problems (nhova).

Apostolic Sect Member Says It's An Offence To Receive Medical Treatment

A member of the Johanne Marange Apostolic Sect in Bikita, Masvingo, says rumours he secretly buried nine of his children in mass graves are false and probably the work of his enemies.
The reports claimed Clever Maveto (67), a polygamist, buried his children, aged one, three and four years – as well as a 10-month-old toddler – under the cover of darkness after they allegedly succumbed to measles-related complications last month.
He had reportedly refused to take the children to the hospital for treatment.
<a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/kids-mass-graves-father-clears-the-air-over-raging-controversy-ready-to-exhume-bodies-to-shame-critics/">H-Metro</a> reported sources as saying Maveto buried the bodies in sets of threes.
But Maveto, who has 15 children with three wives, claimed he had only lost one son and three grandchildren. He said:
<blockquote>
I am prepared to let anyone exhume the bodies to check whether there is any mass grave here.
Only two of the children died of measles-related complications and the others died of natural causes.
The only problem was that when we buried the first two, we woke up as early as 5 AM to dig the graves and buried them that morning.
</blockquote>
Police officers and officials from the Ministry of Health and Child Care, as well as Social Welfare representatives, visited the Maveto homestead following rumours of the existence of mass graves.
Maveto said the officials only found “the four graves and not the mass graves people are talking about”.
His children ran away, when they saw nurses, fearing they would be vaccinated against measles, despite showing signs of the disease. Added Maveto:
<blockquote>
All my children don’t go to any clinic. We have our own doctors at church and they are responsible for dealing with any illness.
</blockquote>
His senior wife, Dorcas Mhere, said they can easily treat measles and will not go against their beliefs.
Meanwhile, Sabhuku (village head) Gede said he had also heard the rumours of a mass grave at Maveto’s homestead, but the rumours have not been confirmed. He said:
<blockquote>
Our only issue with Maveto, and many members of the Johanne Marange sect, is their attitude towards health matters.
We have a measles outbreak and all his children contracted the disease because they are not vaccinated and neither have they been taken to the clinic or hospital for treatment.
Now, that schools have opened, his children are back at school and exposing other children to measles.
</blockquote>

Johanne Marange Sect Member Denies Rumours Of Kids' Mass Grave At Homestead

The Anglican Diocese of Manicaland is holding its Mother’s Union conference at St Matthias Tsonzo in Watsomba in Mutasa District after a two-year hiatus due to COVID-19 restrictions.
The conference commenced on Friday and ends on Sunday.
Anglican Diocese of Manicaland Bishop Eric Ruwona’s wife Eunice urged congregants to pray for peace ahead of the 2023 elections. She said:
<blockquote>
We are hosting our annual Mother’s Union conference after almost two years as we were affected by the COVID-19 precautions measures.
The main purpose of the meeting is the spiritual revival and upliftment of members. We are calling upon the church and nation to unite because our days are numbered.
The Mother’s Union will also be remembered as the day women share ideas on various issues including marriage.
We are praying for peace and unity to prevail in the country as we approach elections.
</blockquote>
In March this year, the Anglican Mother’s Union successfully hosted St Mary’s Day where women from across the country gathered at St Augustine in Manicaland Province.
The Mother’s Union celebrates St Mary’s Day annually on 25 March to celebrate the message that was bought to Mary by the Angel Gabriel that she was to give birth to Jesus.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/2022/08/anglican-conference-roars-to-life/">NewsDay</a>

Anglicans Hold Mothers' Union Conference In Watsomba

There seems to be no end in sight to the factionalism that has dogged the Paul Mwazha-led Africa Apostolic Church (ACC) in recent years.
A group aligned to Mwazha’s last-born son is accusing the bloc led by the second-born son of breaching standing court orders.
The factions recently converged at the Odzi Mapembe Shrine for a Holy Communion gathering, with a Court Sheriff trying in vain to stop the proceedings.
The Mwazha church has split into two factions, with one group being led by the ageing Archbishop’s second-born son, Bishop Alfred Kushamisa Mwazha; while the other is led by the Archbishop’s youngest son, Bishop Tawanda Israel Mwazha.
Mwazha, popularly known as Mudzidzisi, turns 104 this year.
On 27 June 2022, the High Court granted an order against Bishop Alfred’s faction which recently gathered at the Mapembe Shrine. The order read in part:
<blockquote>
It is ordered that the provisional order granted on the 11th May 2022 be and is hereby confirmed.
The first to eighth respondents and all those acting through them are hereby ordered not to visit the shrines of the first applicant without the consent of the current leadership of the church.
The first to eighth respondents and all those acting through them are hereby ordered not to convene meetings of the African Apostolic Church (Vapostora VeAfrica), visit the first applicant’s shrines or place of worship or organise any event there….
</blockquote>
The eight respondents mentioned in the court order are Alfred Kushamisa Mwazha, Ngoni Edward Mwazha, James Mwazha, Richard Juru, Elson Tafa, Charles Tekeshe, Lovemore Mharadze and Norman Siyamuzhombwe.
The applicant is Ernest Mhambare, a member of the church who initiated the legal process on behalf of Bishop Tawanda’s faction.
Meanwhile, Bishop Alfred’s faction believes that their leader was anointed as his father’s successor on 28 February 2020.
According to The Manica Post, the church divisions go deeper than the leadership issue, with prayer methods also causing disharmony.
Long and personal prayers, widely known within the church as “tsindondi”, have been a source of disharmony, with a section of the church insisting on pre-written and recited prayers.
More: <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/mwazha-feud-rages-on/">The Manica Post</a>

Paul Mwazha Church Feud Rages On

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