By Staff Writer
ZANU PF Deputy National Political Commissar Cde Webster Shamhu has commended Johane the 5th of Africa International Church for its dedication in building Zimbabwe.
His remarks were made during the church's 3rd Annual Conference held in Mvuma under the theme "Growing and consolidating the church towards sustainable development."
Deputy National Political Commissar in ZANU PF Cde Webster Shamhu also thanked the church for continually supporting the ruling Party, ZANU PF.
"Thank you for allowing us to come and be with you. We were here with His Excellency, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa before the elections and thank you for voting resoundingly knowing very well the Party that brought Zimbabwe's freedom from colonial rule," Cde Shamhu said.
"The Archbishop's message clearly shows that while we fought to free ourselves politically we are not free financially. This is the reason we are so keen to have President Mnangagwa continue to rule so that the banks, industry, mining can finally empower our people.
"This war requires people who are not lazy but have ideology. President Mnangagwa says 'nyika inovakwa nevene vayo, and it is Zimbabwean sons and daughters who fought for Zimbabwe. We are here today because of their dedication. President Mnangagwa, too, fought for our freedom escaping prison because of his tender age, but he did not give up. He was disciplined and has a history of dedication, selflessness, and loyalty, knowing that this country must be prayed for."
Cde Shamhu commended the work done by Archbishop Makururu through his church.
"You are the children of this country and a tree with no roots dies. What you have done here is commendable as you are bringing back our culture and our identity. Archbishop Makururu, I have seen the music and dance by the young people, this shows that they know the country is built by its own people."
Cde Shamhu assured Archbishop Makururu that the Party will not stand by and watch enemies bent on disrupting the work being done in his territory and urged him not to hesitate to report any culprits.
Also speaking during the Conference, Archbishop Dr Andby Makururu, Founder of Johane, the 5th of Africa International Church, encouraged the ruling Party officials to work together in building Zimbabwe.
"We are an indigenous church that wants to help its Government to develop and grow. His Excellency, President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa talks about us as a people building our own country which is why we request for more land so that we may be able to fulfill our plans of building our own school, hospital and flats," Archbishop Makururu said.
"I have been sent to unite SADC in spirit which is why I am working in the different countries so that I can be able to fulfill this. I urge you also as the ruling Party, ZANU PF to unite and know that God has put you in power so that you uplift the lives of our people.
"We continue to teach our people to love their country and their church as well as to pray for peace and development."
Archbishop Makururu added that people must uphold their culture just as our ancestors did.