Staff Reporter
President Emmerson Mnangagwa pledged to uphold the freedom of religion, pronouncing that the church has always been a development partner in Zimbabwe since the days of the country’s liberation struggle.
President Mnangagwa made the remarks yesterday while addressing congregants at St Joseph Mission in Matobo during the commemoration and celebration of the mission’s 100 years anniversary.
"As it was during the liberation struggle, I want to ensure the Church community across Zimbabwe that the long standing relationship between the Church and the State is inseparable. The constitutionally enshrined freedom of religion will be protected and guaranteed under the ZANU-PF Government," said President Mnangagwa.
President Mnangagwa further mentioned that the Government would continue to engage the Church and other none state actors in the modernisation of Zimbabwe.
"The Second Republic will continue to work with the Church and other stakeholders and progressive none-state entities towards modernising, industrialising and developing our great motherland Zimbabwe.
"From Plumtree to Mutare, from Beitbribge to Chirundu, we are one people united by one national flag and one national anthem," said President Mnangagwa.
The President applauded the Catholic Church for complementing Government’s efforts in improving livelihoods of the communities in Matebeleland South.
"....Embwake and Brunapeg Missions are other examples of how the Roman Catholic Church has over the years been closely working with the Government of Zimbabwe in shaping the livelihoods of communities.
"Many lives have been saved at Brunapeg Mission hospital. Its School of Nursing, Primary School and Community Information Centre are playing critical roles in training and skills development,” said President Mnangagwa.
Meanwhile, President Mnangagwa urged everyone to diligently use the land towards ensuring food security and food sovereignty, stressing that this will be possible from ward level going up as citizens build the nation brick by brick and stone by stone.
