National hero Mwazha burial today
National Hero Archbishop Paul Mwazha, founder of the African Apostolic Church (VaApostora veAfrica), who died on November 20, will be buried today in Chikomba, Mashonaland East province.
He was 107.
Yesterday, thousands of congregants and Government officials converged at the Guvambwa Tabernacle, one of his major shrines, for a funeral service honouring the revered cleric.
His body arrived in the afternoon, and a body-viewing session formed part of the programme.
Heavy rains pounded the area, drenching mourners, yet failing to dampen the collective resolve to pay their final respects to the centenarian, hailed not only as a spiritual leader within his church, but also as an influential figure across Zimbabwe.
From the Guvambwa shrine, Archbishop Mwazha’s body will be transported to Chirasauta in Chikomba district today, where a private burial ceremony is scheduled to take place this morning.
Addressing mourners, Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Advocate Itayi Ndudzo underscored the late archbishop’s profound contribution to the nation.
“We are here as Government to join you in mourning the late Archbishop Mwazha. He was not only your son in this area and church, but a son of Zimbabwe,” he said.
“His dedication during the liberation war era, his role in praying for this nation and his outstanding role in leading this church peacefully have prompted Government under President Mnangagwa to bestow him with national hero status.
“So, today we are here as Government to hand over the body of Baba Mwazha in the hands of the family and the church. So, from here, all the proceedings are being led by the family, working with the church.
“We will be together again tomorrow (today) for the burial of the late archbishop. As a province, we are grateful for the status given to one of our own. This is commendable. I implore the church and the family to work in unity as you proceed with the burial proceedings, bearing in mind that this man was not just your relative, but a national hero.”
Pastor Tapesana of the African Apostolic Church described Archbishop Mwazha as a humble man, a teacher and a father.
“He loved God. He was a man who wanted to lead by example, especially when it comes to God’s work,” he said.
“Baba Mwazha was always prioritising truth over anything. He did not want to associate himself with people who are dishonest.
“We learnt a lot from him as pastors. I remember his words when he was still with us, when he told us that even if we die, we will surely meet again. This is our hope and we will remain hopeful.”
Family spokesperson Dr Masimba Mwazha confirmed that preparations for the burial were complete.
“We will bury my father tomorrow at Chirasauta in Chikomba district. We will start with the family proceedings, then the State will take over.
“As a family, we are thankful to the President, Cde Mnangagwa, for the national hero status. He was given that status because he worked for this nation with loyalty and dedication.” *_-Sunday Mail_*
