THE government has called on the church to take a leading role in mobilising congregants to participate in developmental initiatives that enhance livelihoods and strengthen the education sector. This comes amid growing recognition of the church’s pivotal role in shaping communities and supporting national development.

Over the weekend, congregants of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe gathered in Masvingo for their annual conference, where government officials encouraged the church to partner in advancing educational and social objectives.

Masvingo Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Ezra Chadzamira, urged the church to guide congregants towards initiatives that promote skills and innovation.

“I urge the church to ensure that greater focus is given to the teaching of agriculture, science, technology, and innovation, as well as information and communication technology-related subjects. This is how we will leapfrog the development, industrialisation, and modernisation of our country’s economy. Again, the church must play its part towards the eradication of vices such as drug and substance abuse, crime, bullying, as well as other anti-social behaviour,” he said.

Also in attendance was the Minister of State for Mashonaland East Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Honourable Itayi Ndudzo, who appreciated the church for its consistency in supporting the country’s education sector.

“If you look at the history of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, you will realise that this church has been in existence for a long time. Even during the liberation struggle, many nationalists were followers of this church, including the late Vice President Cde Simon Muzenda. This church has been supporting the government, especially in the education sector, by establishing schools, and to date, they have many dotted across the country. Hence, we recognize their role in nation building,” he noted.

The church leadership paid tribute to the government for creating a conducive environment for the churches to thrive.

“As a church, we appreciate the existing good relationship with the government that has enabled us to preach the gospel freely, winning souls for our Jesus Christ. The church has a role to play in praying for the country to have peace, unity, and prosperity,” Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, Reverend George Mawire said.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is on record saying there is a symbiotic relationship between the government and the church.