The Church News Online

The Church News Online

Wednesday, 1 April 2026

Zimbabwe Council of Churches Strengthens Engagement with AfDB on Energy Access



The Zimbabwe Council of Churches has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting equitable energy access following a two-day dialogue on the Civil Society Engagement Mechanism with the African Development Bank.

Building on initial discussions held yesterday, today’s deliberations deepened the focus on key principles, practical tools, and effective approaches for engagement with the Bank. The dialogue brought together faith actors and civil society organizations determined to translate conversations into coordinated and impactful action.

Participants emphasized that energy transitions across Africa must prioritise meaningful access for communities, particularly the most vulnerable. Central to this vision are community-led approaches, transparency, accountability, evidence-based advocacy, and localization.

A significant outcome of the engagement was the development of a practical guide to strengthen collaboration and engagement with the African Development Bank. This tool is expected to enhance the effectiveness of faith-based and civil society efforts in influencing policies and investments in the energy sector.

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches highlighted that Africa is richly endowed with natural resources, stressing that when these are managed justly and invested wisely, they have the potential to deliver sustainable energy access and improved livelihoods for all.

Grounded in faith and guided by principles of justice and stewardship, the Council and its partners remain committed to ensuring that no community is left behind in Africa’s energy transition journey.

Women of Faith Rise: Celebrating Godly Leadership at Zimbabwe Council of Churches



As Women’s Month draws to a close, we give thanks to God as we celebrate the strength, wisdom, faith, and servant leadership of the women serving on the Board of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches.

These remarkable women stand as a testament to God’s grace in action, demonstrating that women are not only participants in the work of transformation, but divinely empowered leaders, peacemakers, and bearers of hope within our communities. Rooted in Christian values of love, justice, dignity, and equality, they continue to shine as vessels of light, championing women’s leadership, peacebuilding, and the fight against gender-based violence.

Their voices echo courage, purpose, and sisterhood, reflecting a calling to rise in excellence and to serve faithfully. As Scripture reminds us, “She is clothed with strength and dignity; she can laugh at the days to come.”

As Women’s Month comes to an end, may we continue to walk in faith, uplift one another, and carry forward the spirit of empowerment, unity, and action throughout the year.

Happy Women’s Month from all of us at the Zimbabwe Council of Churches.

Tuesday, 31 March 2026

Faith Groups Push for Fair Energy Access in AfDB Talks



The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) on Monday engaged in a strategic dialogue with the African Development Bank (AfDB) under the Civil Society Engagement Mechanism, focusing on the urgent need for a just energy transition across the continent.

The discussions come at a time when Africa, despite being richly endowed with renewable energy resources, continues to face significant challenges, with millions of people still lacking reliable access to electricity.

Participants at the meeting emphasized the importance of inclusive solutions, noting that faith-based organisations have a critical role to play in advocating for fairness and sustainability in energy policies.

“This meeting recognizes the critical role of AfDB and amplifies the voice of faith communities in advocating for equitable, sustainable, and people-centered energy solutions,” read part of the statement.

The dialogue, convened by Christian Aid and ACT Alliance, highlighted a shared commitment to ensuring that Africa’s natural wealth translates into tangible benefits for its people, particularly through improved energy access.

Organisers said the engagement is part of ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between resource availability and energy accessibility, while promoting policies that leave no one behind.

#Con

Monday, 30 March 2026

Zimbabwe Council of Churches Statement On Constitutional Amendment Bill Number 3

 “Seek the peace and prosperity of the city… Pray to the Lord for it, because if it prospers, you too will prosper.” - Jeremiah 29:7


Parliament public hearings on the Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 begin today (Monday, 30 March 2026) across different Provinces and Districts in Zimbabwe. This is your moment to pray for the nation but also actively participate in shaping its future.

Your voice matters in decisions that affect governance, justice, and the rights of every citizen.


📌 We have also attached our fact sheet to help you understand the proposed amendments and engage meaningfully.


Pray. Participate.

#PrayAndParticipate #ConversationsofHope


Saturday, 28 March 2026

Faith Without Action Is Dead: Church Leader Urges Prayer and Participation in Constitutional Process

 


Khulekani Liphatheke!!

The Greater Bulawayo Women Ecumenical Fellowships (WEF) Chairperson, Mrs Stellah Nyathi, has called on citizens to embrace both prayer and active involvement in the ongoing Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment Bill No. 3 processes, stressing the importance of faith-driven action in shaping the nation’s future.

Addressing members of the community, Nyathi emphasized that moments of national significance require more than passive observation. She encouraged believers to seek divine guidance while also taking practical steps to influence outcomes that affect generations to come.

“In moments that shape our nation, faith and action must go hand in hand,” she said. “As we reflect on the Constitutional Amendment, we are called not only to pray for justice, wisdom, and peace, but to also actively participate in processes that determine our future.”

Drawing from scripture, she reinforced her message with the words: “Faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.” — James 2:17

Nyathi’s message resonates as a call to Christians across the country to rise beyond prayer alone, combining spiritual devotion with civic responsibility in pursuit of hope, justice, and national transformation.

#prayandparticipate

#ConversationsOfHope

Friday, 27 March 2026

Restoration Is His Business

 THE WORD IN 60 SECONDS


with Major Kudzai Marime 

Dz Extension Corps 

Harare West Division


RESTORATION IS HIS BUSINESS 


Trust God's unquestionable capability. He restores health, relationships, and brings peace like He did for Job. Call on Him sincerely and experience His restoring power.

#RootedInPrayerAndCommitment  - Salvationist online


Thursday, 26 March 2026

Rise Like Deborah: Women Urged to Speak Out on Constitutional Amendment

 


In a passionate call to action, Mrs Flora Makumbe, the ZCC National Chairperson for Women Ecumenical Fellowships, has urged women across Zimbabwe to rise with courage and take an active role in national processes shaping the country’s future.

Drawing inspiration from the biblical figure Deborah, who stood boldly in times of uncertainty, Makumbe emphasized the importance of women’s voices as the nation reflects on the Constitutional Amendment No. 3 Bill.

She highlighted the significant gender implications within the proposed changes, particularly the restructuring of the Zimbabwe Gender Commission, warning that women must not remain passive observers in matters that directly affect their rights and representation.

“Now is the time for women to raise their voices, shape the future, and ensure that justice, equality, and dignity are upheld,” she said, referencing Proverbs 31:8-9: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves… defend the rights of the poor and needy.”

Makumbe’s message forms part of a broader push to encourage meaningful participation by women in governance and policy discussions, reinforcing the call for inclusivity, accountability, and equity.


Wednesday, 25 March 2026

Faith in Action:Rev Ignatius Makumbe Urges Zimbabweans to Speak, Pray and Participate in Constitutional Hearings

 


HARARE — As Zimbabwe prepares for the upcoming Public Hearings on the Constitution Amendment (No. 3) Bill, Ignatius Makumbe, President of the Zimbabwe Council of Churches, has called on citizens to embrace both faith and civic responsibility in shaping the nation’s future.

In a message directed to the nation, Bishop Makumbe emphasized that participation in governance is not separate from faith, but a reflection of it. He urged Zimbabweans to actively engage in the democratic process while remaining grounded in prayer and spiritual conviction.

“Your voice matters. Your faith calls you,” he said, highlighting that the proposed constitutional changes carry far-reaching implications for governance, rights, and the country’s democratic trajectory.

Drawing from scripture, Bishop Makumbe referenced Jeremiah 29:7, encouraging citizens to “seek the peace and prosperity of the city,” stressing that national development requires both spiritual commitment and active involvement.

He called on people of faith not to remain passive observers but to step forward with humility, wisdom, and courage. According to the church leader, attending public hearings, listening attentively, speaking truthfully, and praying earnestly are all essential parts of building a just and accountable society.

“Let us not be silent observers, but active contributors,” he urged, reinforcing the need for collective responsibility in shaping Zimbabwe’s future.

The call comes at a critical time when public engagement is key to ensuring that citizens’ voices are heard in the constitutional reform process. Through this message, the church leadership is encouraging Zimbabweans to unite faith with action — attending the hearings, participating meaningfully, and seeking divine guidance in the process.

Citizens have also been encouraged to follow ongoing discussions and engage with available platforms to stay informed and involved.

LOCAL NEWS