by Gideon Madzikatidze/Simbarashe Sithole
RUSAPE – In a growing chorus, Zimbabwe’s churches are calling for the creation of a dedicated religious museum to celebrate the founders and pioneers of indigenous churches not only in Zimbabwe but across the entire African continent.
The push comes hot on the heels of Zimbabwe’s recent establishment of a Museum of African Liberation Struggle, sparking a fresh wave of cultural and historical preservation initiatives in the country.
Speaking in Rusape (Manicaland) over the weekend during the church’s 7th edition of women’s conference, Johane Masowe eChishanu Nyenyedzinomwe Apostolic Church to the Wholeworld leader Hebert Thabo Senda (popularly known as Madzibaba Enoch added his voice to a coalition of church leaders, theologians and heritage advocates, urging the government to allocate space and resources for a “Pioneers of Indigenous Churches Museum.” The proposal highlights the rich tapestry of African Christian traditions, from the early missionary‑independent movements to the vibrant, home‑grown denominations that have shaped Zimbabwe’s spiritual landscape.
“We believe it’s time our nation honours the very people who brought the Gospel to our soil in a way that reflects their African identity,” Senda said.
“Leaders including Baba Mutumwa Paul Mwazha, Johane Marange, Johane Masedza, the late Luke Mataruka Pferedzai of Jekenishen, Baba Mutendi (ZCC), Vadzidzi, Baba Micho Changa (Nyenyedzinomwe), Baba Manhango (Bethsaida), among other pioneers. This would enable us to preserve history and foundation of our father founders and package it for both tourism and part of heritage,” Senda added.
“This museum could serve as a pilgrimage and educational hub, showcasing artifacts, oral histories, and multimedia exhibits that trace the evolution of indigenous African Christianity from its roots to its current diverse expressions,” he added.
While the specific details of the museum’s location, funding, and design are still under discussion, church leaders are optimistic about government support, citing the momentum from the liberation‑struggle museum as a catalyst.
“Just as we celebrate our political heroes, we should also celebrate our spiritual forefathers who paved the way for a uniquely African Christianity,” said Senda.
The proposed museum is expected to not only honour Zimbabwe’s own church pioneers, such as the founders of the Zion Christian Church, the Apostolic Faith Mission, Jekenishen, Johane Masowe eChishanu, Johane Marange and other home‑grown denominations, but also to highlight key figures from across Africa who have contributed to the continent’s rich Christian heritage.
Indigenous churches have recently proposed for the government to establish a Ministry of Religion whose mandate seeks to address issues affecting churches and other forms of religion with a deeper understanding of their doctrinal values and existing contexts.
Madzibaba Enoch has announced that their church will be establishing a vocational training and skills centre where they will complement their church’s ongoing educational assistance relief programme for the less privileged membership. Meanwhile, right Bishops attended the event and were honoured with various awards by Madzibaba Enoch.