By Maxwell Haitengeswinyika Teedzai
Dr Andby Makururu says President Mnangagwa’s focus on cell structures fits into the Biblical pattern of community care and accountability
As members of ZANU PF across the Great Republic of Zimbabwe observe National Cell Day today, J5 — Johane the Fifth of Africa International Church founder and visionary Archbishop Commander Dr Andby Makururu has spoken on the role of grassroots political structures in community upliftment, linking cell-based governance with Faith-based service delivery and empowerment.
National Cell Day calls Party members to report to their registered cells, with HE President Dr ED Mnangagwa attending his Kwekwe cell as an ordinary card-carrying Member. In Manicaland Province, Church leader Dr Makururu’s cell is in Ward 32 of Mutare South Constituency in Zimunya–Marange District, where he is registered as a member.
Speaking while in South Africa for the J5 Mega Umthandazo Isidlo SeNkosi — Chirairo CheMweya (January 27–February 1) Holy Communion programme, Archbishop Makururu said grassroots organisation answers to both spiritual and social needs of the people.
“As a Church leader, I teach that change begins where people are gathered in small accountable units. In the Church we call them fellowships and cells. In governance, the Nation also works through cells. This is orderly and it keeps leaders close to the people,” said Dr Makururu.
He said the Second Republic’s focus on cell structures fits into the Biblical pattern of community care and accountability.
“The Word of God shows us that people were served in groups where needs were known and addressed. What is happening through National Cell Day is practical. It allows communities to speak, register their needs, and be counted. That order allows development to move step by step with people involved,” he said.
Archbishop Makururu connected this approach with NDS-1 and NDS-2 development frameworks, saying Government delivery is giving practical effect to what the Church has long prayed for in communities.
“We are preaching the Gospel of Jesus Christ about restoration of lives, dignity, and provision. When empowerment programmes, irrigation schemes, youth funds, and community projects reach the grassroots, the message people hear in Church begins to appear in daily living,” he said.
He added that Faith and public administration need not compete when both are directed toward human welfare.
“The Church sows hope, discipline, and moral direction. Government implements policies and empowerment initiatives. When both touch the same household, families rise faster. No one and no place left behind is not only a policy phrase — it is also a pastoral concern,” said Dr Makururu.