The late Archbishop Paul Enest Mamvura Mwazha, the revered founder and leader of the African Apostolic Church, was laid to rest in Chirasauta, Chikomba District, today.
Archbishop Mwazha, who passed away on November 20, 2025, at the age of 107, was conferred with national hero status by President Emmerson Mnangagwa, recognizing his contributions to Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and his spiritual leadership.
Honourable Tino Machakaire highlighted in his opening remarks that Archbishop Mwazha gained the hero status because of the work he carried in his lifetime.
“His Excellency President Mnangagwa will never declare a person hero status unless he deserves it.
“He was a peaceful person, and we should all carry the legacy forward,” said Hon Machakire.
However, despite the government plans to bury him at the National Heroes Acre, the family opted for a private burial in Chirasauta, Chikomba instead.
Chief mourner, Hon Advocate Itayi Ndudzo, Minister of State Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Mashonaland East Province, who was representing H.E President Emmerson Mnangagwa highlighted that Mutumwa Mwazha came a long way serving Zimbabwe.
“As a nation we have lost a true son of the soil and our national pride.
“Archbishop Mwazha is an international figure known across the continent,” he mentioned.
The burial proceedings, which began early morning were preceded by an all-night body viewing at Guvambwa and a church service at the family home in Hatfield, Harare.
Doctor Masimba Mwazha, son to the late Archbishop Mwazha, described his father as a unifier in the family.
“On behalf of the family, although we are feeling a void, we will always remember my father as someone who encouraged unity,” he said.
Mwazha’s legacy extends beyond his spiritual influence, with many of his followers crediting him with transforming their lives.
The burial ceremony, attended by thousands of congregants and government officials, was a private affair, adhering to church beliefs.
The military took over the proceedings, which ended with a gun salute and the laying of wreaths befitting full‑hero status.
As the final process was private, the final interment took place in the absence of the media.
Archbishop Mwazha, Guti, and Manhango all lived beyond a century, a clear sign that God had blessed them with long lives to carry out His missionary work.
Minister of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution for Manicaland Hon Adv Misheck Mugadza also attended the burial and described the late a true icon, a man of faith.
Several other government officials were also present, including Chikomba East Co Ordinator Cde Lovemore Masunungure who was representing Hon Felix Tapiwa Mhona who is out of the country on official government business.
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Story by Chiedza Nyabadza
