The Church News

Sad: Missing Roman Catholic Priest Found Dead...

2026-09-10T07:08:39.360+02:00

By A Correspondent| The search for a missing Roman Catholic priest has ended in tragedy following the discovery of his body at Parirenyatwa Hospital mortuary.

Father Regis Chikuni, 58, a senior priest in the Archdiocese of Harare, reportedly went missing on September 5, prompting the Catholic Church to appeal for information from priests, religious communities and members of the faithful.

Four days later, on September 9, the Archdiocese confirmed the devastating news that Father Chikuni had been found dead.

In a death notice issued by the Archdiocese and signed by Archbishop Robert C. Ndlovu’s secretary, Father Ephraim Murwira, the Church said, "Tragically, he was found deceased at the mortuary of Parirenyatwa Hospital."

The announcement brought an abrupt end to efforts to locate the priest, with the Church now mourning his death instead of continuing the search for him.

Father Chikuni was remembered by the Archdiocese as a committed priest whose pastoral service had made a meaningful contribution to the Church and the communities he served.

Offering words of comfort to the Catholic community, the Archdiocese said, "We take comfort in our faith that Father Chikuni has returned to the loving embrace of our Lord."

The circumstances surrounding his death have not yet been made public.

The Archdiocese said details regarding his funeral and burial arrangements would be communicated in due course.

EFZ Maps Out National Advocacy Roadmap To Equip The Church For Transformation

2026-09-09T07:05:22.889+02:00

Staff Writer- The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe says strengthening the Church from within is the key to seeing lasting change in the nation.

In a statement last week, EFZ said its secretariat held an intensive strategy session to develop a national advocacy roadmap. The gathering focused on building capacity across the Fellowship’s network and membership structures.

"While we build capacity across our network and membership structures, strengthening our own internal foundation remains key to sustaining long-term impact," EFZ said.

According to the Fellowship, the new strategy is rooted in its biblical mandate. It directly aligns with EFZ’s overarching goal: equipping the Church to drive meaningful national transformation through prayer, engagement, and service.

EFZ leaders emphasized that a stronger internal strategy will translate into greater collective impact in communities, government, and society.

The roadmap comes as EFZ continues to mobilize pastors, congregations, and Christian leaders around its pillars of discipleship, good governance, and national healing.

"Stronger internal strategy leads to greater collective impact," the Fellowship noted, calling on believers to remain steadfast in prayer and action.

EFZ is using #PrayEngageBuild as it moves forward with the plan.

#Leadership #StrategicPlanning #NationalTransformation #EFZ #AdvocacyInAction

Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe Leads Intercession for the Nation

2026-09-08T06:01:08.263+02:00

Staff Writer- The Evangelical Fellowship of Zimbabwe [EFZ] says last week’s gathering was more than an event. It was a moment of national unity before God.

In a statement released following the prayer meeting, EFZ reflected on a time of coming together “with one heart and one purpose” — *To pray and intercede for Zimbabwe*. 🇿🇼🇿🇼

“A Nation United in Prayer, A People Standing in the Gap,” the Fellowship declared, describing the gathering as a collective act of faith and responsibility for the country.

Church leaders, congregants, and citizens from different denominations came together to lift the nation in prayer, seeking God’s guidance, healing, and peace for Zimbabwe during challenging times.

EFZ expressed gratitude to everyone who attended and stood with them.

“Thank you to everyone who came through and stood with us in prayer. God Cares!” the statement read.

The Fellowship emphasized that prayer remains central to the nation’s hope, calling on Zimbabweans to continue interceding for leaders, communities, families, and the future of the country.

The event adds to EFZ’s ongoing role in mobilizing the church to engage in spiritual matters affecting the nation, with a focus on unity, repentance, and God’s intervention.

Fungisai Praises Legendary Guitarist Zivanai Masango

2026-09-07T07:09:44.023+02:00

Staff Writer- Gospel musician Fungisai Zvakavapano Mashavave has heaped praise on guitarist Zivanai Masango, describing him as one of the most outstanding and humble talents in Zimbabwe’s music industry.

In a message shared on Monday, Fungisai introduced Masango to churchgoers and music lovers, crediting him for his work behind some of her most celebrated projects.

“Churchpersons, please meet ZIVANAI MASANGO, the sole producer and lead guitarist of the _Tinokutendai Ishe_, _Toita Zvedenga_ and _Makomborero_ Albums,” Fungisai wrote.

She described Masango as “the most calm but outstanding talent I have ever known,” and urged her followers to show him support. “Mupei malove nemalikes,” she added.

Masango played a key role in shaping the sound of the three albums, which remain firm favourites among gospel audiences for their worship-driven lyrics and rich instrumentation.

Fungisai’s tribute highlights the often unseen contribution of musicians and producers who work behind the scenes to build the sound of gospel music in Zimbabwe.

Fans and fellow musicians have since flooded the comments with messages of appreciation for Masango’s skill, humility and decades of service to gospel music.

GOD’S PLANS ARE GREATER THAN OURS

2026-09-05T07:18:10.301+02:00

“‘For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’” (Jeremiah 29:11)

Jeremiah 29 was written as a letter to people whose hearts were not in sync with God’s plans. The exiles in Babylon wanted a quick escape, a sudden miracle, and an immediate return to Jerusalem. False prophets were promising speed, but God was speaking stability. While the people were planning survival, God was planning transformation. He told them to build houses, plant gardens, marry, and seek the peace of Babylon because their stay would not be short. Heaven’s timeline was different from human expectation.

This reveals the difference between our plans and God’s plans. We plan for speed, but God plans for stability. We plan for an escape, but God plans for endurance. We plan for quick recovery, but God plans for character. Sometimes we want God to remove the fire immediately, yet He allows the furnace because He is producing faith that cannot be destroyed. His plans may include a dungeon of fire and a den of lions, yet every painful season is still working for our good. Before His people arrived in Babylon, God had already walked before them. Their captivity was not beyond His control.

God’s plans are never random. Even delays are filled with divine purpose. The greatest proof of this is Jesus Christ. Humanity expected a conquering king, but God sent a suffering Savior. Through the cross came salvation, hope, and eternal life. Jesus is the perfect plan of God revealed to the world.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

ZCC Takes Evangelism and Soul Winning to the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show

2026-09-04T06:46:31.985+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) used the Zimbabwe Agricultural Show in Harare not only as a platform for economic empowerment, but also as an opportunity to advance evangelism, Christian witness and soul winning among people attending the annual exhibition.

Through its participation, the ZCC sought to bring the message of hope, faith and transformation into a public space where thousands of people from different backgrounds converge. The initiative highlighted the church's role in reaching communities beyond traditional places of worship and making Christ known through both word and action.

The ZCC also provided space for Zimbabwean returnees participating in its Home Office Returns and Reintegration Programme to showcase their businesses, interact with customers and explore new markets. The programme, supported by the UK Government, assists eligible Zimbabwean nationals returning from the United Kingdom to rebuild their lives and livelihoods.

Returnees involved in the programme have established businesses in areas including agriculture, dairy farming, metal fabrication, manufacturing and food production. Their participation at the Agricultural Show demonstrated how restored livelihoods can become a testimony of resilience, dignity and renewed hope.

For the church, however, economic empowerment goes hand in hand with spiritual transformation. By engaging people in a public environment such as the Agricultural Show, the ZCC creates opportunities to share the Gospel, encourage people in their faith and reach individuals who may not ordinarily walk into a church building.

The initiative therefore presents evangelism as more than preaching from a pulpit. It demonstrates the importance of meeting people where they are, building relationships and using community programmes as avenues for soul winning and Christian ministry.

Through its continued engagement with communities, the ZCC is seeking to demonstrate the practical expression of Christian faith while pointing people towards hope in Christ and encouraging transformed lives.

ZCC Joins African Faith Leaders in Renewed Push for Debt Justice

2026-09-03T06:07:47.282+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined faith leaders, policymakers, civil society organisations and other stakeholders in calling for greater African unity and stronger action on the continent’s growing debt crisis.

The ZCC participated in the 6th African Conference on Debt and Development (AfCoDD VI), held in Nairobi, Kenya, from 25 to 28 August 2026. The conference was convened under the theme, "From Fragmentation to Influence: Advancing the Common African Position on Debt."

A major highlight for the ZCC was a side session jointly hosted with the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC), bringing together faith-based organisations and other stakeholders to examine Africa’s changing debt situation and discuss how churches can contribute to the campaign for debt justice.

Participants stressed that Africa’s debt crisis extends far beyond economic statistics, with debt-related pressures having direct consequences for access to healthcare, education, livelihoods and sustainable development.

The discussions also emphasised the responsibility of faith communities to speak out against unjust systems and advocate for vulnerable communities affected by economic policies and financial burdens.

For Zimbabwe, the deliberations come at a significant time as the country continues efforts to resolve its longstanding debt arrears and secure a sustainable path towards debt resolution.

The ZCC said the discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring that Zimbabwe’s debt resolution process is transparent, accountable and centred on the needs and welfare of ordinary citizens.

The church grounded its advocacy in the biblical call contained in Isaiah 1:17: "Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed."

The conference has therefore provided an opportunity for African churches and their partners to strengthen their collective voice in demanding fairer and more sustainable approaches to the continent’s debt challenges.

Zimbabwe Council of Churches Stands in Prayer With Families of The Missing

2026-09-02T07:05:18.276+02:00

_Harare, 30 August 2026_ – The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) joined the global community in commemorating the International Day of the Victims of Enforced Disappearances, standing in solidarity with victims, survivors and families who continue to live with the pain and uncertainty of not knowing the fate or whereabouts of their loved ones.

Enforced disappearance leaves behind more than an absent person. It leaves families searching for answers, communities carrying unanswered questions, and loved ones longing for truth, justice and closure.

As people of faith, we affirm the dignity and sacredness of every human life. We continue to pray and work for a world where every person is protected, where truth is not buried, and where justice and accountability prevail.

We remember that our God is near to the brokenhearted. We commit to walk alongside grieving families, to lift them in prayer, and to speak for the dignity and worth of every person made in God’s image.

_“For there is nothing concealed that will not be disclosed, or hidden that will not be made known.”_ - *Luke 8:17*

AFM Zimbabwe Set For Elevation Conference In Masvingo

2026-09-01T06:04:25.343+02:00

The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe’s Royal Palace Assembly and Mufaro Sub-Assembly are set to take part in an upcoming Elevation Conference scheduled for 11–13 September in Masvingo.

The three-day gathering is expected to bring together congregants and church members for a time of worship, spiritual growth, fellowship and ministry.

Organisers have encouraged members and believers to make plans to attend the conference as preparations gather momentum ahead of the September event.

Masvingo is expected to host the gathering from 11 to 13 September under the theme of elevation and spiritual advancement

RCZ Holds 34th Synod Assembly

2026-08-31T05:33:11.451+02:00

The Reformed Church in Zimbabwe (RCZ) is gathered for its 34th Synod Assembly, a significant moment of worship and reflection as the Church considers its calling and mission. A key moment of the Assembly has been the election of a new Moderamen, led by Moderator Rev. Dr. E Baloyi to provide leadership and guidance to the Church

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) joined the Assembly today in ecumenical fellowship and solidarity. Ms Maria T Dendere, Head of Programme for Humanitarian Services & Diakonia, delivered the ZCC’s ecumenical greetings and solidarity message on behalf of the ZCC General Secretary, Rev Wilfred Dimingu.

In the message, Rev. Dimingu celebrated the RCZ’s longstanding contribution to the ecumenical movement and to Zimbabwe through evangelism, education, healthcare, community development and public witness. He encouraged the Church to continue strengthening unity, nurturing accountable leadership, empowering women and young people, caring for vulnerable communities and responding faithfully to the realities facing our nation. As churches, we are reminded that “although we are many members, we belong to one body” (1 Corinthians 12). In this spirit, ZCC reaffirms its commitment to journeying with RCZ in advancing Christian unity, strengthening the Church’s public witness and serving the people of Zimbabwe.

We celebrate this important gathering with the RCZ and wish them a fruitful and blessed 34th Synod Assembly.

Source: Zimbabwe Council of Churches

THEME: YOUR PAST DOES NOT HAVE THE FINAL WORD.

2026-08-29T06:34:15.150+02:00

Scripture: “So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife… and the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.” (Ruth 4:13)

Ruth’s story is a powerful testimony of how the grace of God can locate a person in the most unlikely circumstances. Ruth was a Moabite woman, from a people viewed by Israel as outsiders and excluded from the assembly of the Lord because of their origin. Yet Ruth’s life was also marked by personal tragedy. She lost her husband, her father-in-law, and her husband’s brother, and she was left without a child or obvious future.

Many people today carry stories that resemble Ruth’s. Some have broken beginnings, painful family histories, failed relationships, bereavements, rejection, financial struggles, or circumstances they never chose. Sometimes life seems to close every door just when hope begins to rise.

But Ruth teaches us that your origin does not determine your destination when God’s grace is upon your life.

Grace located Ruth in a field belonging to Boaz. The woman who could have remained an outsider became the wife of a respected man in Judah. More remarkably, she became part of the lineage of King David and ultimately the earthly lineage of Jesus Christ.

What people considered a limitation, God turned into a testimony. Beloved, do not allow your past to convince you that your future is finished. When the grace of God locates you, rejection can become acceptance, loss can become restoration, and obscurity can become significance.

Your story is not over. Grace is still writing it.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

Anglican Church Donates Household Items To Returnees From SA

2026-08-28T07:14:31.343+02:00

The Anglican Diocese of Harare has donated essential food and household items to support Zimbabwean returnees arriving from South Africa.

In a statement issued on Thursday, the Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) said the donation was made by the Anglican Diocese of Harare, one of its member churches, as part of efforts to assist returnees during their transition back home.

The consignment included drinking water, clothes, shoes, blankets, sanitary pads, baby wear, bathing and laundry soap, toothpaste, rice, macaroni, cornflakes, Cerelac, sugar, cooking oil, powdered milk, maize, oats, mealie meal, drinks, biscuits, spaghetti and salt.

The donation was received by ZCC Financial Controller Abraham Zvinoitavamwe on behalf of the ZCC General Secretary, Reverend Wilfred Dimingu.

The ZCC said the assistance would help provide returnees with basic necessities while supporting their dignity and wellbeing as they begin rebuilding their lives after returning to Zimbabwe.

"The ZCC sincerely appreciates the Anglican Diocese of Harare for standing with returnees and demonstrating the power of Christian compassion, solidarity and service," the council said.

If you want, I can also make it �⁠more news-style and punchy while keeping the headline unchanged.

ZCC Begins New Chapter With Fresh Leadership

2026-08-27T06:34:56.682+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has entered a new chapter following its 48th Biennial General Assembly, which was held from 21 to 24 July 2026.

The elective Assembly brought together members of the ecumenical movement for a period of reflection, renewal and the election of a new leadership team tasked with guiding the organisation in the coming years.

At the centre of the new leadership is the ZCC Presidium, led by Bishop Kenneth Sibanda of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Zimbabwe (ELCZ) Central Diocese as President. Bishop Gift Kudakwashe Machinga of the United Methodist Church was elected Vice President.

The new leadership structure also includes the National Women’s, Men’s and Youth Executives, representing the different constituencies within the church body.

The ZCC has now released its 48th General Assembly Bulletin, documenting key developments, reflections and highlights from the gathering while introducing the leadership entrusted with steering the council into its next phase.

The publication provides an opportunity for members of the ecumenical community and the wider public to follow the outcomes of the Assembly and learn more about the new leadership.

The ZCC described the Assembly as an important moment for renewal as the organisation seeks to strengthen its contribution to the ecumenical movement.

The bulletin is available for readers who wish to explore the proceedings and meet the new leadership of the ZCC.

#ZCC48thAssembly #ConversationsOfHope

Churches Pay Tribute To Methodist Church in Zimbabwe Presiding Bishop's Wife

2026-08-26T06:19:17.486+02:00

By A Correspondent- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has expressed its deep sorrow following the death of Mrs Adelaide Sithole, extending condolences to her family, the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe and the broader Christian community.

In a message of condolence, the ZCC conveyed its sympathies to Revd Simbarashe Sithole and the entire Sithole family during their time of bereavement.

The council said it was praying for the family to receive strength and comfort as they come to terms with the loss of their loved one.

"May the God of all comfort grant the family strength, grace and peace during this difficult time," the council said.

The ZCC also joined the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe and the wider ecumenical family in mourning Mrs Sithole, describing the period as one of profound grief.

"May her soul rest in eternal peace and rise in glory," the council said.

Dorcas Moyo Album Launch Set For October 31

2026-08-25T07:17:16.940+02:00

Album Launch In Gutu

2026-08-24T06:50:15.570+02:00

Dorcas Moyo...

Hama dzangu dzekwa Gutu makadiiko...From 2pm pa Drommage Runyowa B/C Gutu musi wa 29 Aug....See you there....Gutu muriko here💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾💃🏾🎤🎤🎤🎤🎤

United Methodist Church Donates Relief Supplies to Support Zimbabweans Returning from South Africa

2026-08-22T04:20:04.706+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has received a donation of food and non-food items from the United Methodist Church, aimed at bolstering ongoing support for Zimbabwean citizens returning home from South Africa.

The consignment was formally handed over at a ceremony held in Harare, with ZCC officials receiving the donation on behalf of the organisation.

Through this initiative, ZCC continues to work alongside Government efforts to ensure a safe and dignified return and reintegration process for citizens coming back from South Africa.

Since the crisis began in June 2026, ZCC has provided direct assistance—both independently and through its network of member churches—including food, personal hygiene supplies, transport fare to final destinations, healthcare support, psychosocial counselling, and spiritual care to those in need. This work is carried out in close coordination with multisectoral Government teams under the Civil Protection Department, particularly at the Beitbridge port of entry and other temporary waiting centres set up nationwide.

ZCC expressed deep appreciation to the United Methodist Church for heeding the call and standing in solidarity with returning citizens, describing the donation as a powerful example of the Church's mission extending beyond the pulpit—putting faith into action to preserve dignity, ensure safety, and offer hope during times of crisis.

Churches Mourn Passing of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona

2026-08-21T07:18:03.648+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has joined the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland and the Ruwona family in mourning the death of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona, the father of Bishop Eric Ruwona, a member of the ZCC Supervisory Council.

As the family and church community gather for the Requiem Mass in Rusape today, ZCC General Secretary Rev Wilfred Dimingu is standing in solidarity with the bereaved family and the wider Christian community.

Rev Dimingu has conveyed condolences to the Ruwona family, offering prayers, Christian comfort and ecumenical solidarity during the difficult period of loss.

The ZCC said it was praying for strength and comfort for all those affected by the death of Sekuru Ruwona.

"May God grant comfort and strength to the family and all who mourn, and may Sekuru Malachi Ruwona's soul rest in eternal peace," the council said.

The church also drew comfort from the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:4: "Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted."

Members of the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland, the CPCA Anglican Council of Zimbabwe, ZimGospel Masters Radio and Magazine, The United Methodist Church Masvingo District and United Theological College Zimbabwe joined in expressing their condolences.

ZCC Pays Tribute To Bishop Eric Ruwona's Father

2026-08-20T06:30:32.392+02:00

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) joins the family and the Anglican Diocese of Manicaland in mourning the passing of Sekuru Malachi Ruwona, father to Bishop Eric Ruwona, ZCC Supervisory Council member.

As the Requiem Mass is held today, ZCC General Secretary, Rev Wilfred Dimingu, joins the Ruwona family, together with the wider Church community, in Rusape sharing in their grief and offering Christian comfort, ecumenical solidarity and hope in this time of bereavement.

May God grant comfort and strength to the family and all who mourn, and may Sekuru Malachi Ruwona’s soul rest in eternal peace.

“Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.” - Matthew 5:4

Anglican Diocese of Manicaland, CPCA Anglican Council of Zimbabwe ZimGospel Masters Radio And Magazine The United Methodist Church Masvingo District

United Theological College Zimbabwe

Source: Zimbabwe Council of Churches

THEME: YOUR PAST DOES NOT HAVE THE FINAL WORD.

2026-08-19T06:46:13.294+02:00

Scripture: “So Boaz took Ruth, and she became his wife… and the LORD enabled her to conceive, and she gave birth to a son.” (Ruth 4:13)

But Ruth teaches us that your origin does not determine your destination when God’s grace is upon your life.

Your story is not over. Grace is still writing it.

To God be the glory

Rev B Chinhara

ZCC Joins Church Leaders In Nairobi For Advocacy Agenda

2026-08-18T06:32:19.834+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches delegation

was in Kenya last week for a high-level gathering aimed at strengthening faith-based advocacy across Africa.

ZCC took part in the Norwegian Church Aid Advocacy Programme Africa Partner Learning and Reflections Meeting, held in Nairobi. The 5-day forum brought together NAPA partners to review progress, share lessons, and map out coordinated action.

According to organizers, the meeting was designed to deepen evidence-based work, improve results tracking, and explore new areas for collaboration among church and civil society groups.

ZCC led one of the peer-learning sessions where it presented its experiences, achievements, setbacks, and key takeaways from work on the ground in Zimbabwe. The session was aimed at encouraging practical dialogue and mutual learning among partners.

A major focus of the talks was advocacy. Delegates worked to sharpen thematic priorities, identify joint campaign opportunities, and agree on collective commitments to influence policy.

The gathering wrapped up with a joint action plan, with partners pledging specific follow-up steps to turn research and learning into real impact in their communities.

Through the engagement, ZCC said it remains committed to using evidence, shared learning, and united advocacy to drive sustainable change.

Emotional Send-off For Veteran Educationist Thomas Nzengere Makanyire

2026-08-17T07:14:11.293+02:00

The legacy of veteran educationist Thomas Nzengere Makanyire was celebrated in an emotional farewell attended by former students, fellow educators, church leaders, family members and people whose lives were shaped by his decades of service to education.

Makanyire was laid to rest on Thursday, August 13, 2026, at the Makanyire family homestead in Chivasa Village, Gutu East, under Chief Chitsa, following his death on Monday, August 10, at Gutu Mission Hospital after battling a chronic heart condition.

He was 85.

Among those who gathered to pay their respects were former students, including popular opposition leader Advocate Nelson Chamisa, Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC) Chief Executive Officer Sugar Chagonda, Professor Tatira and Rev Judah Mashamba.

Also present was Rufaro High School headmaster Jameson Shumbanhete, Makanyire's nephew, who joined other mourners in celebrating the life of a man remembered for his commitment to education, discipline and mentorship.

Makanyire's academic journey laid the foundation for a distinguished career in education.

He attended Fletcher High School from 1962 to 1967 before proceeding to the University of London, where he studied for a Bachelor of Arts Honours Degree between 1968 and 1970.

From 1971 to 1972, he pursued a Graduate Certificate in Education at the University of Rhodesia, further preparing him for a career that would span several decades.

His professional teaching career began at Makumbe High School, where he served from 1973 to 1979.

He later joined Gutu High School, serving between 1982 and 1989, including a period as Deputy Headmaster.

His leadership experience eventually took him to Alheit Mission High School, where he served as headmaster from 1990 to 1996.

It was during his tenure at Alheit that he came into contact with several students who would later make their mark in public life and various professions, among them Chamisa and Chagonda.

After leaving Alheit, Makanyire continued his career at Nerupiri Given High School, where he served as headmaster until his retirement in September 2011.

His career reflected a steady progression from classroom teaching to school administration, with his influence extending across generations of learners and educators.

At his funeral, tributes from former students and colleagues painted a picture of an educationist who placed considerable emphasis on discipline, academic achievement, character development and personal responsibility.

Those who knew him recalled not only his professional achievements but also his ability to guide young people at crucial stages of their lives.

The presence of former students who travelled to mourn him was a reflection of the enduring relationships he established during his years in education.

For his family, the funeral was also a celebration of a patriarch whose influence extended beyond his professional career.

Makanyire is survived by four children, 13 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. His wife predeceased him in 2019.

As mourners gathered to bid him farewell, the tributes underscored the lasting impact of a teacher whose working life was devoted to developing young minds.

His journey from Fletcher High School and university studies in the United Kingdom to classrooms and school leadership positions in Zimbabwe ultimately culminated in a career that lasted until his retirement in 2011.

For former students, colleagues, relatives and members of the communities in which he worked, Thomas Nzengere Makanyire leaves behind a legacy measured not only by the schools he led, but by the generations of students he helped shape.

He also taught George Charamba, Dr Anxious Masuka, Professor Amon Murwira, Dr Marume, Gutu East MP Zvarevashe Masvingise among others

God's Plan Is Life, Not Addiction: A Call For Young People To Choose Hope

2026-08-08T04:32:48.649+02:00

By Kundai Kwenda, Chairperson of the Kwenda Foundation

Drug and substance abuse continues to rob countless young people of their futures, destroying families, careers and dreams.

It is a growing crisis that demands urgent action from parents, communities, schools and young people themselves.

As someone who has experienced the devastating effects of addiction, I want young people to understand that there is always hope. My life story is proof that no matter how far a person has fallen, recovery is possible. Addiction does not have to define your future.

Many people turn to drugs as a form of escapism, believing they can temporarily run away from pain, disappointment, stress or emotional struggles.

The reality is that escapism through drugs is destructive. It deepens problems instead of solving them, often leading to broken relationships, poor health, financial hardship and lost opportunities.

I encourage every young person to stay away from drugs and other harmful substances. Do not allow peer pressure or difficult circumstances to determine the direction of your life.

The choices you make today will shape the person you become tomorrow.

If you are already struggling with addiction, know that you are not alone. Reach out for help.

Speak to a trusted family member, counsellor, faith leader, healthcare professional or a recognised rehabilitation service. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

At the Kwenda Foundation, we believe that every life has value and every individual deserves a second chance.

Through sharing my own journey, I hope to inspire others to believe that change is possible.

Recovery takes courage, commitment and support, but it can be achieved.

My message to every young person is simple: choose life, choose hope and choose a future free from drugs.

Your past does not have to determine your destiny, and with the right support and determination, you can overcome addiction and build a brighter future.

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https://www.youtube.com/@kwendafoundation

Instagram: kwendafoundation

kwendafoundation@gmail.com

LinkedIn: Kwenda Foundation

Contact email for Kwenda foundation is kwendafoundation@gmail.com

"Do Not Neglect Strangers": ZCC Joins Regional Churches To Stand With Migrants In South Africa

2026-08-07T04:50:59.269+02:00

Staff Writer- The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) is in South Africa this week for a Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa (FOCCISA) Regional Solidarity Visit hosted by the South African Council of Churches (SACC), the current Chair of FOCCISA.

Church leaders and delegates from Malawi, Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia, Tanzania, Eswatini and South Africa have gathered in what organisers describe as "a shared expression of faith and regional solidarity."

The delegation will travel to the Western Cape and KwaZulu-Natal for engagements with churches, migrant communities, government institutions and civil society partners. The goal, according to the ZCC, is to "deepen understanding, strengthen ecumenical collaboration, and affirm the dignity and rights of migrants."

Leading the ZCC delegation is General Secretary Rev. Wilfred Dimingu. He is joined by former ZCC President Bishop Dr. I. Makumbe.

Speaking on the mission, the ZCC said it "remains committed to accompanying migrants with compassion, advocating for their dignity and rights, and working with ecumenical partners to build communities where every person is welcomed, protected and valued."

The visit is anchored in scripture. The ZCC quoted Hebrews 13:2 as the basis of its engagement:

“Do not neglect to show hospitality to strangers, for by doing that some have entertained angels without knowing it.”

FOCCISA regional visits are held periodically to allow member councils to pray with, listen to, and walk alongside communities facing displacement, xenophobia and economic hardship across Southern Africa.

SEEING VICTORY THROUGH EYES OF FAITH

2026-08-06T05:02:29.065+02:00

THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS

with Major Kudzai Marime

Dz Extension Corps

Harare West Division

Before David stepped onto the battlefield, he arrived at a camp filled with fear. While everyone else saw an unbeatable giant, David saw an opportunity for God to display His power. The spirit of David should also be found in us as children of God. We are not called to focus on the size of our problems but on the greatness of our Heavenly Father.

Because we are born of God, defeat is not our identity. Our Father is always in control, and He goes before us to fight the battles we cannot win on our own. Whatever giants stand before us today, we can face them with confidence, knowing that victory belongs to the Lord.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, strengthen our faith to trust You in every season of life. Help us to see every challenge through eyes of faith, knowing that You go before us and fight on our behalf. May we walk each day in the confidence that our victory is found in You. Amen.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment - Salvationist Online