GOVERNMENT has called on the church to play a more active role in driving national development, particularly in promoting education, skills training and instilling moral values.
The appeal was made at the annual conference of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, held in Masvingo recently.
Masvingo minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Ezra Chadzamira, said churches were well-positioned to influence positive change within communities.
“I urge the church to ensure that greater focus is given to the teaching of agriculture, science, technology and innovation, as well as ICT-related subjects,” he said.
“This is how we will leapfrog development and industrialise our country. The church must also help in eradicating drug abuse, crime and other anti-social behaviours.”
The event was also attended by the Mashonaland East Minister of State Provincial Affairs and Devolution Itai Ndudzo who commended the Methodist Church for its longstanding contribution to the education sector.
“This church has been a pillar of support in education since the liberation struggle. Many schools across the country were established by the Methodist Church and we honour its commitment to nation building,” he said.
He also noted the role played by notable figures such as the late Vice-President Simon Muzenda, who was a devout Methodist.
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Church leaders welcomed the call for partnership and expressed gratitude to the government for fostering religious freedom and co-operation.
“We appreciate the good relationship between the church and government, which allows us to preach freely and build strong communities. We remain committed to praying for peace, unity and prosperity in our nation,” said Reverend George Mawire of the Methodist Church in Zimbabwe.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has consistently emphasised the close relationship between the church and the State, describing it as symbiotic in the drive towards national transformation.
