Need for churches to formalise operations

Blessing Karubwa
THE proliferation of open-air worship sites, particularly those belonging to Apostolic sects, on unauthorised council land is a growing concern for local authorities nationwide. As a result, many municipalities are initiating crackdowns to dismantle these illegal structures.
Numerous enforcement actions and engagements have been undertaken with the churches, but to no avail.

The occupied land lacks basic amenities such as accessible roads, potable water sources, and sewage reticulation.
In essence, it fails to meet the essential urban requirements for a settlement.
The rapid expansion of these religious groups, often characterised by their unique practices and beliefs, has led to the appropriation of public spaces without proper permits or approvals.
This encroachment on municipal land not only disrupts urban planning and aesthetics but also raises concerns about public health, safety, and environmental impact.

Local authorities are taking decisive action to address this issue. By removing illegal shrines, they aim to restore order, protect public spaces, and ensure compliance with zoning regulations. Councils have consistently urged open-air worshippers to apply for stands to establish formal places of worship.
They have highlighted that a few individuals have successfully obtained permits and constructed proper structures, demonstrating a willingness to comply with city by-laws.

While Zimbabwe guarantees freedom of religion in the Constitution, all enclosed spaces where large numbers gather must meet laid-down standards such as emergency exits, ventilation, and the provision of toilets. These spaces must be inspected and obtain and display their certificate of assembly.
The need by open-air worshippers to apply for stands to establish formal places of worship was raised recently by Legislator for Mount Pleasant Constituency George Mashavave.

Addressing Brethren In Christ Church (BICC) Mt Pleasant congregants in Mt Pleasant Heights in Harare during the official handover of the newly-constructed church, Mashavave challenged churches particularly open-air worshippers, encouraging them to secure legal stands.
He emphasised that those worshiping from undesignated sites are not recognised by the authorities.
“I have been in politics for a long time, and people have been sobbing, coming to me, and venting their frustrations after their places of worship have been destroyed by local authorities. This is despite the fact that they have been praying from these sites for years.

“This unfortunate situation highlights a broader issue that churches holding services in undesignated areas are not recognised by the Government, city council, or any local authorities.
“To ensure legal recognition and protection, it is crucial for churches to secure proper land for worship. I urge all religious institutions to prioritise obtaining legal permits and licenses to avoid such distressing incidents,” he said.

He also congratulated and praised BICC Mount Pleasant for obtaining land by following the correct processes, encouraging other churches to do the same.
“There is a need to follow proper procedures to obtain land for religious purposes, as it ensures legal recognition and protection for places of worship.

“It is my pleasure to join this important historical event that marks the grand arrival of the Brethren in Christ Church to the Golden City within Mount Pleasant Heights Constituency.
“I believe this becomes part of community development initiatives which directly contribute to the deliverables as espoused in the National Development Strategy 1. The church plays an important role in the national development affairs, especially contributing to the social and moral well-being of Zimbabweans,” he said.

Mashavave further said the church plays a pivotal role in environmental conservation and sustainable practices.
BICC Mt Pleasant Pastor Dr Bernard Nkala commended the government’s efforts to ensure that all religious institutions operate within the legal framework.
“We applaud the efforts of our Government to ensure that all religious institutions operate within the legal framework.

“By encouraging churches to secure proper land and permits, the Government is safeguarding the rights of religious organisations and promoting harmonious coexistence within our communities.
“It is imperative that we, as religious leaders, adhere to these regulations and work closely with local authorities to ensure that our places of worship are established legally and ethically.
“By doing so, we can continue to serve our communities without fear of disruption or closure,” said Dr Nkala.