Only a small, select group of family members attended the private burial of Archbishop Paul Mamvura Mwazha, founder of the African Apostolic Church, who was interred on Sunday at Chirasauta Mountain in Chikomba District. The 107-year-old cleric, widely revered across Zimbabwe and beyond, passed away on 20 November in Harare, leaving behind a spiritual legacy that spans generations.
While the burial itself was intimate and strictly family-led, thousands of congregants had earlier gathered to pay their respects during a series of memorial services held across the country. The Mwazha family had specifically requested a quiet ceremony, in line with the traditions of the African Apostolic Church, known locally as VaApostora veAfrica. This decision ensured the sacred customs of the church were preserved and the solemnity of the final rites maintained.
Before the burial, Archbishop Mwazha’s body was taken to the Guvambwa Tabernacle, one of the church’s principal shrines, where congregants had the opportunity to view him one last time. Despite heavy rains that swept through the shrine, multitudes traveled from all corners of the country to honour the centenarian spiritual leader. Many attendees described him as a humble servant of God whose teachings, prayers, and disciplined life had transformed countless communities.
“We saw the power of God through Mutumwa. He lived what he preached—humility, love, and unity,” said one devoted congregant.
Another remarked, “His prayers healed many, and his teachings brought peace to our homes.”
Family spokesperson Dr Masimba Mwazha described the loss as monumental, saying the family had lost its pillar of strength. “We learnt a lot from our father. He was courageous, prayerful, hardworking, and an outstanding leader. As children, we have lost a father, grandfather, and spiritual guide,” he said.
Born on 25 October 1918 at Holy Cross Mission in Chirumanzu, Mwazha displayed profound spiritual devotion from an early age. He trained as a teacher at the Howard Institute but later left the profession to dedicate himself fully to spreading the Gospel. Over several decades, he traveled extensively across Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries, preaching messages of unity, peace, and moral guidance. His work earned him widespread respect and a loyal following, cementing his status as one of the nation’s most influential spiritual figures.
African Apostolic Church founder Paul Mamvura Mwazha laid to rest in private family burial
The final journey of Archbishop Mwazha followed a carefully organised sequence, reflecting both family wishes and church customs. His remains were first collected from Nyaradzo Funeral Parlour before being taken to the family home in Hatfield for an evening service. From there, the body was airlifted to Guvambwa for an overnight vigil, after which it was transported to Chirasauta Mountain early Sunday morning for the burial.
The family emphasized that all proceedings adhered strictly to the church’s customs. No public speeches were permitted at the graveside, and the ceremony was intentionally kept small to preserve the sacredness of the rites. This approach contrasted with earlier memorial gatherings, which saw extraordinary turnout and public tributes from devotees, community leaders, and government officials.
Archbishop Mwazha’s teachings and spiritual leadership profoundly shaped the lives of his followers, many of whom credit him with providing guidance, comfort, and moral direction. His commitment to prayer, humility, and service established him as a spiritual icon whose influence transcends generations.
He is survived by 10 children, 85 grandchildren, 124 great-grandchildren, and 13 great-great-grandchildren, who are expected to continue his legacy within the church and broader community.
While the private burial marked the close of Archbishop Mwazha’s earthly journey, the impact of his life and ministry will continue to resonate. Congregants and admirers across Zimbabwe reflect on his decades of service as a reminder of the enduring power of faith, humility, and dedication.
The African Apostolic Church, under his guidance, became a spiritual home for thousands, fostering unity, discipline, and moral instruction. Even in his final days, Archbishop Mwazha’s commitment to church teachings and his followers remained unwavering, underscoring a life devoted entirely to spiritual service.
His passing and private interment bring to a close the physical presence of one of Zimbabwe’s most respected spiritual leaders. Yet, his teachings, prayers, and example continue to inspire millions, ensuring that his legacy will guide generations to come.
In death as in life, Archbishop Mwazha’s influence is reflected not only in the formal rituals that marked his passing but also in the countless lives shaped by his devotion, discipline, and unwavering faith. His centenarian journey stands as a testament to a life of service, making him an enduring figure in Zimbabwean spiritual history.
Source- ZimEye
