mbulelo smpofu
Gibson Mhaka/Faith Ndlovu
MODERN church architecture has the potential to become a significant draw for religious tourism. By seamlessly blending innovative design with spiritual symbolism, these structures can offer unique and awe-inspiring experiences for visitors.
By embracing innovation and creativity, modern church architecture can inspire and uplift, making them significant destinations for religious tourism.
The newly commissioned 10 500-seater Harvest House International Church boasts a stunning auditorium that is a testament to the power of modern church architecture to promote religious tourism.
This multi-million-dollar facility, which redefines grandeur and sets a new benchmark for places of worship in Zimbabwe, was officially opened by President Mnangagwa on Sunday. The gleaming structure has become a defining feature of Bulawayo’s skyline.
At night, the auditorium transforms into a mesmerising visual spectacle, illuminated by an innovative LED lighting system that casts shifting hues across the structure. This stunning night-time display makes the church a prominent landmark, visible from afar, further enhancing its appeal as a religious tourism destination.
Speaking at the official commissioning, President Mnangagwa praised the project for aligning with the Government’s vision to transform Bulawayo into a premier destination for conferences and events.
“As President and on behalf of the Government and the people of Zimbabwe, I join you in celebrating this great achievement which will benefit the church, the City of Bulawayo and our great motherland, Zimbabwe as a whole.”
President Mnangagwa also commended the church for its commitment to constructing similar facilities nationwide, including schools, to complement Government programmes.
“This structure is one of the largest of its kind in our country. I am further pleased to learn that in addition to spiritual nourishment, which is the reason for its existence, this building will also provide an outreach to the community.”
It is clear from President Mnangagwa that the Harvest House International Church is poised to become a significant landmark in Bulawayo, attracting visitors from both within and outside the country.
Its impressive architecture and state-of-the-art facilities make it an ideal venue for hosting large-scale religious gatherings, conferences, and other events.
This will contribute to the city’s growing reputation as a vibrant cultural and religious centre.
Furthermore, the church’s commitment to community outreach aligns with the government’s efforts to promote social and economic development.
By offering various programmes and services, the church can positively impact the lives of local residents and enhance the city’s overall appeal to tourists and investors.
This is the latest addition to the country’s growing list of large church buildings, a trend that has gained significant momentum in recent years.
Other notable examples include the 30 000-seater mega church constructed by Prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa founder of the United Family International Church (UFIC) in Chitungwiza, and the multi-million-dollar hotel and guesthouse constructed by Prophet Walter Magaya founder of the Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries.
As if that is not enough, the Zion Christian Church (ZCC), led by Bishop Makuwa Mutendi, also built a US$2 million multi-purpose Mbungo Conference Centre in Bikita, Masvingo, which has become an unlikely tourist attraction.
The centre boasts 5 000 square metres of conference space, accommodating up to 40 000 people.
The monumental ZCC (Mbungo) shrine, which was certified as a religious tourism destination in 2011, stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the potential of religious sites to attract visitors from around the world.
This imposing and majestic building in Bikita has become an unlikely tourist attraction.
Some now call it the Star Temple due to its shape, which resembles the star on the church’s badge.
Today, the shrine is a tourist attraction, which visitors touring Masvingo cannot afford to omit from their list.
Locally, Prophet Blessing Chiza’s Eagle Life Assembly in Sizinda is another impressive example of this trend, showcasing the growing influence of contemporary church architecture in Zimbabwe.
Tourism and Hospitality Industry Minister, Barbara Rwodzi, has also been on record expressing her commitment to engaging with church leaders, transforming and empowering churches by identifying and amplifying their infrastructure as tourist destinations.
Speaking in Bulawayo during an investment conference in September during the Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo, Minister Rwodzi said that it is her profound wish to make sure that churches, including indigenous ones, benefit from their infrastructure, doctrines, values, and other unique beliefs.
It is important to note that by recognising and incorporating these state-of-the-art worship facilities into tourism branding, Zimbabwe can tap into a vast, untapped market, foster cross-cultural understanding, and showcase its diverse religious landscape.
These religious centres are a testament to the country’s rich religious diversity, which can be leveraged to attract tourists seeking authentic experiences.
By celebrating religious diversity, Zimbabwe can position itself as a leader in cultural tourism, promoting peace, understanding, and tolerance.
This approach aligns with SDG 16, which aims to promote peaceful and inclusive societies.
It is important to note that Zimbabwe’s tourism industry also acknowledges and celebrates the significance of religious shrines, such as Goora in Madziwa (Johane Masowe Yechishanu Vadzidzi VaJesu), Marondera Yellow City (Johane Masowe Yechishanu), Marondera Johane Masowe Yechishanu Jerusalem and Guvambwa Shrine at Sadza Growth Point, among others.
These sacred sites, founded by visionary leaders like Mudzidzi Majinesta, Madzibaba Lawrence Katsiru, Madzibaba Echoes, and Archbishop Paul Mwazha, are integral to the country’s rich cultural heritage and hold immense spiritual value, attracting countless devotees and tourists alike.
