Compiled by Panashe Gwesu.
Apostolic church leaders in Matabeleland North Province are promoting health awareness and encouraging their members to visit hospitals and clinics which is a big change from their past practices.
The initiative, led by the Johane Masowe eChishanu Church, supports Zimbabwe’s vision of achieving universal health coverage.
Health awareness drives have already been conducted in Hwange, Tsholotsho, and most recently in Lupane, where a major outreach event was held on Sunday.
Historically, many apostolic sects in Zimbabwe discouraged the use of hospitals and clinics, relying instead on spiritual healing even in cases involving serious illness.
According to a Global Press Journal report, some groups went as far as forbidding immunisations and hospital births, contributing to delayed treatment and increased maternal mortality.
However, recent years have seen a gradual shift, with some churches now promoting early medical intervention alongside faith.
Congregants who attended the Lupane campaign welcomed the initiative. “This is a great initiative, especially for us women. We can now seek medical care without fear of discrimination,” said one church member.
Another added, “We appreciate this gathering. It gave us a chance to consult and learn directly from both medical professionals and our church leaders”.
Senior church leader Madzibaba Thembelani Dube said the campaign aims to address the dangers of delaying treatment. “We are continuing with awareness campaigns to educate our congregants on the importance of seeking medical attention at hospitals and clinics.
“We have found that many members come to church with chronic conditions like cancer and TB at advanced stages, hoping for spiritual healing alone. Today’s message is clear, while spiritual support is important, early medical intervention saves lives,” he said.
Local authorities have also endorsed the campaign.
Thandolwenkosi Nyoni, Chairperson of the Lupane Local Board, said: “As the Lupane Local Board, we welcome this important gathering, which has brought together various Masowe churches to promote the importance of health care.
“We acknowledge that many of our people previously relied solely on spiritual healing. These efforts are shifting mindsets,” said Nyoni.
The campaign complements national health strategies supported by development partners.
According to ZBC, government efforts include constructing new clinics and upgrading existing rural facilities to meet Vision 2030 healthcare goals.
The shift by apostolic churches toward embracing medical care marks a vital step toward reconciling traditional beliefs with public health imperatives.
Authorities hope this growing acceptance of clinical treatment will help reduce preventable illnesses and improve outcomes in areas such as maternal health, immunisation, and chronic disease management.
Source: (Afro Gazzette news)
