A Tribute to a Spiritual Giant: Archbishop Paul Mwazha

By Chiyedzo Josiah Dimbo, Ambassador of Hope

According to biblical teachings, 70 years is the barometer of life, and anything beyond that is a divine bonus. Dying at 107 years is a true testimony that Archbishop Reverend Paul Mwazha was a true servant of God— a man favored with 37 bonus years, as eloquently observed by Jimayi Muduvuri. From the very beginning of the nation’s collective mourning, the voice of Muduvuri — Patron of the Zimbabwe Amalgamated Council of Churches (ZACC) — rose with clarity and reverence, capturing what millions felt but could not fully express.

His words framed Archbishop Paul Mwazha not merely as a church leader, but as a towering moral compass whose life shaped Zimbabwe’s spiritual identity. In Muduvuri’s reflections, Archbishop Mwazha emerges as a national pillar — a man whose humility, compassion, and unwavering devotion elevated him to a stature worthy of the highest honor. Through this lens, the story of Archbishop Mwazha’s life becomes not just a remembrance, but a celebration of an icon whose light guided the faithful for more than a century.

A Legacy of Faith and Compassion

Archbishop Mwazha’s journey is one of profound devotion and transformative influence. As the founder of the African Apostolic Church, he built a spiritual movement rooted in African identity, dignity, and Christian truth. His teachings blended faith with cultural grounding, enriching the spiritual lives of millions. The Archbishop’s compassion reached across generations, inspiring a church whose heartbeat echoes his values of humility, unity, and love.

A Life of Service and Dedication

For his followers, Archbishop Mwazha was more than a leader — he was a father figure, a healer, a counselor, and a source of consistent spiritual refuge. His ministry was marked by calm strength and unwavering purpose. As Bishop Jeshua Mhizha, the General Secretary of the African Apostolic Church, expressed so tenderly, “He has departed from us, but in spirit, we are together with him.”

Indeed, Archbishop Mwazha’s presence continues to resonate, living on in the lives he shaped and the hearts he uplifted.

A Call to Honor a National Hero

Among the numerous voices calling for the recognition of Archbishop Mwazha’s lifetime contributions, Jimayi Muduvuri — in his capacity as Patron of the Zimbabwe Amalgamated Council of Churches — stands at the forefront. His call for the Second Republic to consider National Hero status underscores the magnitude of Mwazha’s impact. Muduvuri’s appeal — “Let us celebrate the icon and pillar of faith Archbishop Paul Mwazha”— reflects a broader sentiment shared by congregants, church leaders, and citizens alike.

In honoring Mwazha, the nation honors its own spiritual foundation.

A Legacy that Transcends Borders

Archbishop Mwazha’s influence extends far beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. As one of the pioneers of indigenous African churches, he fostered peace, stability, and spiritual discipline across the continent. His movement, with over a million followers, stands as a testament to his enduring relevance and the resonance of his message. Across Africa, his name is synonymous with faithfulness, integrity, and a life lived in complete service to God.

A Tribute to a Humble Servant

At the core of Archbishop Mwazha’s greatness was his humility. His leadership was quiet yet powerful, marked not by self-promotion but by selfless service. Muduvuri — drawing from his close reflections as Patron of ZACC — often highlights how Mwazha’s character taught him, and many others, the true meaning of humbleness.

His humility was not an act; it was his way of life. And it is this gentle greatness that continues to inspire countless people long after his passing.

Archbishop Paul Mwazha leaves behind a legacy etched deeply into the spiritual and moral fabric of Zimbabwe and Africa.

Rest in peace, great servant of God. Your legacy endures — forever.