by Paidamoyo Mutsvairo/ Tatenda Gono

The new dispensation under the leadership of President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa is committed to working with the local churches, said a senior Government official.

Addressing thousands of women who were gathered for National Day of Women's Prayer at Glamis Arena yesterday, Minister of Labour and Social Welfare, Honourable Petronella Kagonye said churches played a pivotal role in nation building and as such they should work hand in glove with the new Government in developing the economy.

Minister Kagonye said, "Church contributed to Zimbabwe's attainment of independence. Churches fed liberation war fighters and helped them to cross to neighbouring countries for training and supported them in different ways. Churches and Government should therefore work together."

Honourable Kagonye also encouraged women to maximise on Women's Bank and urged them to take advantage of opportunities being availed by Government. She also encouraged women to take part in Government activities.

Minster Kagonye also urged women to pray for peaceful elections. "If there is no peace it is women who suffers most,” she said.

Speaking at the same occasion, Pastor Abgail Magwenzi encouraged women to be involved in challenging projects like construction and manufacturing industries. She said women should be proactive. Pastor Magwenzi said women should find where they can fit in in this new dispensation.

Pastor Magwenzi challenged women to be initiative and take advantage of programmes being introduced by Government. She also encouraged women to play their role in building the economy, through using different expertise they have.

National Day of Women's Prayer ran under the theme Women revive Zimbabwe and was attended by women leaders of various churches. Also present was Minister of State for Manicaland Province, Honourable Monica Mutsvagwa.