The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) has expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with families in Masvingo Province who were left devastated by the hailstorm that hit the province on 5 October 2026.
The catastrophic hailstorm had left more than 17000 households severely damaged and approximately 8500 households had their roofs completely blown off.
In a statement released on 8 October 2026 from the office of the General Secretary, Rev Wilfred Dimingu, the ZCC said its heart goes out to families whose homes were damaged and whose belongings and livelihoods were lost.
The church body said it is deeply concerned about families now living under damaged roofs and behind shattered windows, as well as communities facing interruptions to electricity, water and other essential services.
“The Zimbabwe Council of Churches stands in solidarity with the people of Masvingo Province following the devastating hailstorm of 5 October 2026. We hold every affected person in prayer during this distressing time,” reads part of the statement.
The ZCC acknowledged the declaration of a state of disaster and the relief efforts currently underway, saying the immediate priority must be safe shelter, food, clean water, medical care and restoration of essential services.
The Council called for assistance to be distributed based on need, with particular attention to vulnerable groups including children, older persons, persons with disabilities and families whose homes remain exposed to further rain.
Rev Dimingu also appealed to member churches, congregations, partners, businesses and all people of goodwill to support the response in coordination with local authorities and disaster management structures.
The ZCC stressed that recovery will require sustained support even after the initial emergency, including repairs to homes, schools, health facilities and livelihoods.
“To the people of Masvingo: you are not forgotten. The damage is great, but you do not face it alone. Scripture reminds us that God is our refuge and strength. May that hope be made visible through the care we offer one another and the work we undertake together,” the statement said.
The Council concluded by praying for strength and comfort for all affected families, wisdom for those leading the response, and a recovery in which no community is left behind.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa has since declared a State of Disaster for areas that were affected by the severe hailstorm.
