Archbishop Paul Mwazha, the revered founder and long-time leader of the African Apostolic Church, has died at the age of 107. His passing on Thursday, November 20, 2025, marks the end of an extraordinary spiritual era and leaves behind a religious movement shaped by his unwavering devotion, discipline, and prophetic ministry. For millions of followers in Zimbabwe and abroad, Mwazha’s death is more than the loss of a church leader—it is the departure of a towering spiritual father whose influence spanned generations.
News of his passing was confirmed in a solemn communiqué issued from the church’s headquarters, sparking waves of grief and reflection across congregations nationwide. For many faithful, Mwazha’s longevity and continued presence had become a symbol of divine favour and spiritual endurance. His death, though expected at such an advanced age, still struck a deeply emotional chord among believers who had come to see him as a perpetual shepherd.
The responsibility of announcing the heartbreaking news fell to Bishop Jeshua Mhizha, the General Secretary of the African Apostolic Church. In his official statement, delivered with the dignity and reverence befitting such a moment, he began with a traditional salutation before confirming the loss that the church had long anticipated but never wished to confront.
“Good morning! The African Apostolic Church, Va Apostora ve Africa. I regret to inform you that Our Archbishop, Paul Mwazha of Africa our church leader has just passed on today, November 20, 2025,” he wrote.
These words, simple yet heavy with meaning, formally closed a remarkable chapter in the life of the African Apostolic Church—a chapter written, led, and lived by Archbishop Mwazha himself. The announcement immediately rippled across the church’s structures, from local assemblies to international branches, prompting a collective moment of mourning and remembrance.
Archbishop Paul Mwazha Dies at 107: A Giant of African Independent Christianity Leaves a Lasting Legacy
In his message, Bishop Mhizha sought not only to inform but to console a grieving community. He reminded the faithful that while their leader had departed in the physical sense, his spiritual presence would continue to anchor and inspire them. His message was one of unity, urging members to hold steadfast to the teachings and values imparted by the archbishop throughout his decades-long ministry.
“He has departed from us but in spirit we are together with him,” Mhizha affirmed.
These comforting words echoed a core belief long taught by Archbishop Mwazha—that the spiritual bond between shepherd and flock transcends physical life. As such, the bishop’s message served as both reassurance and a call for continuity, urging believers to remain united under the guiding principles established by their founder.
The statement concluded with a declaration steeped in faith and gratitude, shifting the collective mood from grief to reflective praise. Bishop Mhizha ended with the Shona exhortation:
“Kudzai Jehovah, Kudzai Jehovah!” (Praise Jehovah, Praise Jehovah!)
This final line acted as both a benediction and an instruction. In the African Apostolic Church tradition, such words serve to lift the hearts of the mourning, encouraging them to honour the life and mission of their departed leader through worship and thanksgiving. It set the tone for how the church intends to navigate this painful transition—with reverence, unity, and unwavering faith in God.
Church officials have assured the public and the faithful that detailed funeral arrangements and further guidance on the path forward will be shared in due course. Given Mwazha’s stature, his farewell is expected to draw thousands, including high-level religious leaders, government representatives, and members of the international faith community.
Archbishop Paul Mwazha’s impact extends far beyond the walls of the African Apostolic Church. Over decades, he emerged as a titan of African independent Christianity, championing a model of worship that blended African identity with Christian values. His teachings on repentance, moral discipline, and personal transformation shaped the spiritual lives of countless believers. Known affectionately as Mutumwa—The Messenger—Mwazha became synonymous with healing, prophecy, humility, and service.
From humble beginnings, he built one of the largest indigenous churches in Zimbabwe, a testament not only to his charisma but to his unshakeable belief in a God-driven mission. His life story is one of resilience, sacrifice, and profound faith. For many, he was more than a religious leader—he was a spiritual father, a counsellor, a healer, and a beacon of hope.
As Zimbabwe and the broader Apostolic community mourn his passing, his teachings, legacy, and spiritual imprint remain woven into the fabric of the nation’s religious identity. Archbishop Paul Mwazha’s journey has ended, but his influence will endure for generations to come.
Source- iHarare
