Established Churches around Zimbabwe
The Church of Central Africa, Presbyterian-Harare Synod, is a vibrant and diverse denomination made up of two distinct presbyteries: Harare Presbytery and Gweru Presbytery. These two presbyteries work together in harmony to carry out the mission of the Church, united in faith and purpose. Harare Presbytery, which is the larger of the two, encompasses thirteen congregations, each serving their local communities with dedication and commitment to the gospel. These congregations are spread across the Harare region, serving a diverse population and actively engaging in both spiritual and social outreach.
On the other hand, Gweru Presbytery includes eight congregations, located in and around the city of Gweru, and the surrounding rural areas. While smaller in number, the congregations in this presbytery are equally committed to spreading the love of Christ and serving their local communities. Despite being geographically separated, the Harare and Gweru presbyteries share a common mission to grow spiritually, foster fellowship, and promote Christian values in their respective areas.
Together, the two presbyteries form the Harare Synod, a total of twenty-one congregations, united in their goal of worshipping God, supporting one another, and reaching out to those in need. This structure allows for effective coordination of resources, ministries, and programs across the synod, as well as the opportunity for greater fellowship and collaboration among congregations.
Harare C.C.A.P
Salisbury, now Harare was the first congregation to be established in the Synod. She was established on the 28th of October, 1944. By then, the congregation was under Nkhoma Presbytery. Among the delegates who solemn witnessed the official induction or establishment of this congregation were Rev S. Bulombola, the Moderator of Nkhoma Presbytery; Rev M van der Coff, the Secretary/Clerk of Nkhoma Presbytery; Rev JJ Stegmann from Nkhoma Synod; Rev Allan Thipa from the Blantyre Presbytery; Mr A Craill from S.A.G.M; the Evangelist Simon Makate from Nyasa Mission; Mr Lindi from the Zambezi Mission and Rev HW Murray representing the DRC in the Cape Province but from the Morgenster Mission, Masvingo –Zimbabwe.
The Livingstonia Synod wrote a letter of apology and sent her best wishes and congratulatory message to the Nkhoma Presbytery on the establishment of this congregation. Reverends J.Jackson and W. Makwalo were present as hosts of the colourful event (Daneel, 1982:24).
Gweru C.C.A.P
Gwelo, now Gweru is the second congregation to be established in Zimbabwe. This great day was on the 16th of September, 1950. Among the honorable officials who witnessed the occasion were Rev Malembo, the Moderator of Nkhoma Presbytery; Rev Labushagne, the Clerk of Nkhoma Presbytery; Rev A. Ndrama from the Blantyre Mission and Rev JW Minaar from Nkhoma Mission.
The branches of Gweru congregation by then were Hartley, now Chegutu, Gatooma, now Kadoma, Came and Motor, Etna, QueQue, now KweKwe, Gwelo,now Gweru, Wanderer, Peak Mine, Selukwe, now Shurugwi, Mashaba and Shabane Asbestos Mines in Mashava and Zvishavane respectively (Daneel, 1982:25). The congregation lies in the Midlands Province and is surrounded by farms and mines. Rev Makwalo, upon his ordination in 1944, was deployed in Gweru to look after the flock. By then Gweru was still a branch of Harare Congregation. In 1950 Rev Makwalo became the first minister to serve in this newly established congregation. He served up to 1958 as indicated earlier on.
Bulawayo C.C.A.P
Bulawayo became the third congregation in the Synod and was duly established on the 14th of May, 1955. This was after the Orange Free State handed over all the missionary work to Morgenster Mission, now Reformed Church in Zimbabwe, on the 9th of July, 1954. The demarcation of the DRC in the Cape Province and the DRC Orange Free state was the Shangaan River between Gweru and Bulawayo.
So, the hand-over of all the missionary work to the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe by the DRC of the Orange Free State paved way for Rev MS Daneel and Rev W. Makwalo to start the missionary work in Bulawayo and Wankie, now Hwange as from the 20th to the 25th of July 1954. Mr Sambo volunteered to become the first evangelist in the congregation. In 1956, Rev HML du Toit was sent by the Nkhoma Synod to be the first missionary in Bulawayo.
Highfield C.C.A.P
Highfield Congregation was established in May 1957, three years after its inception was first envisioned. The congregation came into existence following the arrival of Rev. Aramson A. Chirwa, marking a significant moment in the growth of the CCAP presence in Harare.
The establishment of Highfield Congregation closely followed the formation of the Harare Presbytery, which was officially founded in August 1956. This pivotal event was graced by notable church leaders, including Rev. Labuschagne, the Moderator of the Nkhoma Synod, and Rev. P. Mzembe from the Livingstonia Synod.
Over the years, Highfield Congregation has expanded its reach, forming several branches that include Glen Norah, Glen View, Nyabira, Darwendale, Beatrice, Mufakose, Kuwadzana, Norton, Dzivaresekwa, Warren Park, Chinhoyi, and Beatrice. These branches have played a vital role in spreading the gospel and fostering a strong Presbyterian community.
Today, Highfield Congregation stands as one of the seven congregations in Harare, continuing its mission of faith, service, and spiritual growth within the CCAP Synod of Harare.
Kadoma C.C.A.P
In 1962, five congregations were born in Harare Synod. I now turn to each of them in detail. Gatooma, now Kadoma: This congregation was the first of the five congregations that were established in 1965. Kadoma was dully established on the12th of January, 1962. By then, the congregation stretched from Hartley, now Chegutu, Chakari (Shagari Mine), Came and Motor, Venice Mine, Empress Mine and Rio Tinto to Kadoma. The congregation lies along the Harare-Bulawayo road, and is about one hundred and forty (140) kilometers away from Harare. The congregation falls under Gweru Presbytery and is, like many other congregations, surrounded by the farming and mining communities. Rev JN Maseko was the first minister to serve in this congregation. He served from 1964 to 1970. Rev MS Daneel became the visiting minister from 1971 to 1972 when Rev IGM Banda took over as the resident minister up to 1978. From 1978 to 1979, Rev JH Chimutu took charge of the congregation till his return to Nkhoma Synod in 1979.
The second of these five congregations was QueQue, now KweKwe. The congregation was established on the 21st of January, 1962. The major prayer houses of KweKwe congregation are Amaveni, Torwood, Mbizo and Red Cliff. The congregation is about two hundred and thirteen (213) kilometers away from Harare. The first resident minister in KweKwe was Rev JN Maseko who served from 1976 to1978 as mentioned earlier on. From there, the congregation was being looked after by the visiting ministers from Harare and Gweru.
Mutare C.C.A.P
The third is Umtali, now Mutare. The congregation was established on the 10th of February, 1962. It was a prayer-house of Harare before. Mutare congregation lies in the eastern part of Zimbabwe, about two hundred and sixty-three (263) kilometers away from Harare. It is in Manicaland Province. The branches are Headlands, Inyati Copper Mine, Rusape, Nyazura, Odzi, Penhalonga, Dangamvura, Sakubva, Aberfoyle and Zimunya.
The congregation is also surrounded by the farming and mining communities. The first resident minister in this congregation was Rev Enos Makewana. He served from 1964 to 1967 and was transferred to Harare. From 1967 to 1971, the congregation was being looked after by one of the missionaries as they had vehicles as mode of transport. In 1971 Rev TJ Chipeta became the second resident minister of Mutare congregation. He served up to 1979 and was transferred to Gweru.
Other ministers who served in this congregation were JE Kalema, LT Tsitsi, YT Mathyoka, BD Kapangaziwiri, MGL Sungitsa, Nasoni JE Mwale, MS Nkhanga and Lameck Mwale who resigned in March this year (2011) after serving for more than eight years.
Marondera C.C.A.P
The forth is Marandellas, now Marondera about seventy-six (76) kilometres away from Harare. The congregation was established on the 17th of February, 1962. Marondera was a branch of Harare before. The branches of this congregation are Macheke, Murehwa, Chiparawe, Showers, Igava, Ruzawe, Hwedza, Dombotombo, Nyameni, Bromley and Melfort. The congregation is surrounded by farms throughout. Since the establishment of the congregation, there was no resident minister till 1979 when Rev JC Juma arrived from Nkhoma Synod, Malawi.
The visiting minister for seventeen (17) years were Rev JN Maseko JE Kalema and MS Daneel (Daneel, 1982:29). Among the evangelists who served in Marondera congregation were YT Nangwale, AS Kammayani, LB Gunde, EJ Chikadza, GEJ Siinda and KM Sawona. Rev T Zefa also ministered in this congregation for more than eleven (11) years and has been transferred to Mabvuku this year in January. Prior to his ministry in Marondera, Rev GEJ Siinda served in this congregation from 1989 to 1992.
Chinhoyi C.C.A.P
Chinhoyi Congregation, formerly known as Sinoia, was officially established on August 20, 1962. Before gaining independent status, it operated as a branch of Highfield Congregation. Situated in Mashonaland West Province, approximately 120 kilometers from Harare, Chinhoyi Congregation developed within a region surrounded by large-scale farms and mines.At its inception, the congregation oversaw several branches, including Kariba, Karoi, Mangula Mine (now Mhangura), Alaska Mine, Lions Den, Sheckleton Mine, Mutorashanga, Muriel Mine, Caesar Mine, Sutton Mine, Raffingora, Tengwe, Banket, and Trelawney. These branches played a crucial role in the congregation's outreach and growth within the province. The first resident minister of Chinhoyi Congregation was Rev. J.H. Londt, who served from 1964 to 1970. From 1970 to 1972, the congregation was temporarily under the supervision of Rev. M.S. Daneel. Thereafter, Rev. A.J. Viljoen took over as the resident minister from 1972 to 1981.Several evangelists contributed significantly to the congregation’s ministry, including Veliasd Banda, F.P. Gama, Y.G. Kanjala, A.S. Kammayani, F.J.Y. Chisale, E.K. Chikalema, and J. Banda. Notably, Rev. P.E. Chirongo provided long-term leadership, serving as the congregation’s minister for more than thirteen years.Today, Chinhoyi Congregation continues to be a pillar of faith within the CCAP Synod of Harare, fostering spiritual growth and extending its ministry throughout the region.
Hwange C.C.A.P
Hwange Congregation, formerly known as Wankie, became the eleventh congregation in the CCAP Synod of Harare upon its establishment in 1970. Located in Matabeleland Province, approximately 777 kilometers from Harare, the congregation has played a vital role in spreading the gospel in the region.
Initially, Hwange Congregation operated as a branch of Bulawayo Congregation before attaining independent status. The Wankie Colliery has been a major pillar and source of strength for the congregation, supporting its growth and development. Some of its notable branches include Kamativi Tin Mine, Victoria Falls, and Dete, among others.
The congregation has been served by several dedicated ministers. The first resident minister was Rev. H.S. Mawanga, who led the congregation from 1983 to 1987. Another notable minister was Rev. G.E.J., who served from 2000 to 2005. In 2008, the late Rev. David Ponchisi was assigned to Hwange Congregation after completing his theological training at Zomba in Malawi. His ministry was unfortunately cut short by his untimely passing in June 2010.
Hwange Congregation continues to serve as a beacon of faith in the Matabeleland region, strengthening the spiritual lives of its members and expanding its ministry to surrounding communities.
Mabvuku C.C.A.P
In 1987, Mabvuku, one of the Harare congregation prayer-houses, developed into a congregation. Mabvuku is within Harare, about fifteen or so kilometers away from the city. The prayer houses of the congregation are Epworth, Ruwa, Mzurisana, Greendale, Ceylone Mine, Arcturus Mine and Goromonzi.
Some of the ministers who served in this congregation are Rev HS Mawanga from 1991 to 1993 as resident minister, Rev GEJ Siinda, Rev MS Nkhanga and Rev T Zefa were some of the resident ministers. Rev. L. Boloma served the congregation as a resident minister from 2008 to 2010. Among the evangelists who served in Mabvuku congregation are B. Masamba, YG Kanjala, AE Gangire, M. Kalvayo and Velias Banda
Mufakose C.C.A.P
Mufakose Congregation was officially established in 1988, having previously operated as a prayer house under Highfield Congregation. Located approximately 12 kilometers from Harare’s city center, Mufakose has grown into a vibrant congregation within the CCAP Synod of Harare.
The first resident minister of Mufakose Congregation was Rev. M.S. Nkhanga, who had served as an evangelist in the Synod from 1971 to 1989. Following his calling to ministry, he was sent for theological training at Nkhoma, Malawi, completing his studies in 1992. Upon his return, he was deployed as the first resident minister of Mufakose, serving from 1992 to 1997.
From 1997 to 2003, the congregation was led by Rev. G.E.J. Siinda, who was later transferred to Hwange. In 2003, Rev. M.S. Nkhanga returned to Mufakose and continued to serve until 2005.
Mufakose Congregation initially included several branches, namely Rugare, Kambuzuma, Kuwadzana, Warren Park, and Dzivaresekwa. Over time, Mufakose, Rugare, and Kuwadzana have since grown and attained full congregation status.
Today, Mufakose Congregation continues to be a pillar of faith, serving its members and expanding its ministry in alignment with the mission of the CCAP Synod of Harare.
Tafara C.C.A.P
Tafara Congregation was officially established on the 9th of March, 2003, becoming one of the congregations in Harare under the CCAP Synod of Harare. Prior to its establishment, Tafara operated as a branch of Mabvuku Congregation. Situated in the eastern part of Harare, the congregation is located less than 20 kilometers from the city center.
Since its formation, Tafara Congregation has not had a resident minister. The first visiting minister was Rev. W. Kanyangira, who served the congregation until his departure for Blantyre, Malawi, in 2004. Sadly, Rev. Kanyangira passed away on Monday, the 14th of September, 2009, after battling cancer. He was laid to rest on Tuesday, the 15th of September, 2009, in his home village in Thyolo, Malawi.
Since 2005, Rev. Samuel Gunde has been serving as the visiting minister for Tafara Congregation. Despite not having a resident minister, the congregation continues to grow in faith and remains an important part of the CCAP Synod of Harare
Lobengula C.C.A.P
Lobengula Congregation, located in the heart of Bulawayo, is the fourteenth congregation in the CCAP Synod of Harare. Established in 1990, the congregation emerged from a vision to spread the Word of God and was initially a prayer house under Bulawayo Congregation before attaining full congregation status.
Over the years, Lobengula has been blessed with committed leadership, with Rev. G.E.J. Siinda and Rev. A. Malemelo serving as resident ministers. Their dedication has provided spiritual guidance and contributed to the steady growth of the congregation.
Today, Lobengula Congregation continues to flourish, with several prayer houses under its care, including Entumbane, Magwegwe, and Mpopoma. These prayer houses serve as centers of worship, fellowship, and community service, reaching out to the surrounding neighborhoods and beyond.
Lobengula Congregation remains steadfast in its mission to share the love of Christ, empower its members, and make a lasting positive impact in the community.
Karoi C.C.A.P
Situated in the vibrant town of Karoi, Karoi Congregation has stood as a beacon of hope and faith since its establishment in 1995. Before becoming a full congregation, Karoi operated as a prayer house under Chinhoyi Congregation, serving the spiritual needs of the local community.
The congregation’s first resident minister, Rev. W.H. Lackson, played a foundational role in its growth and development. Over the years, Karoi has been blessed with the service of other dedicated ministers, including Rev. R.J. Gama, who led as a resident minister, and Rev. P.E. Chirongo, who provided spiritual guidance as a visiting minister.
Today, Karoi Congregation continues to thrive, encompassing six major prayer houses: Chikangwe, Chiedza, Tengwe, Lynx Mine, Karuru, and Kariba. These prayer houses serve as dynamic centers of worship, fellowship, and community service, catering to the surrounding farming and mining communities.
Nestled in a region known for its rich agricultural land and mining activities, Karoi Congregation remains committed to spreading the message of hope, faith, and redemption to all who seek it.
Rugare C.C.A.P
We are a vibrant and loving community of believers, proudly part of the Presbyterian Church of Zimbabwe under the Harare Synod. Our church has a rich history, dating back to 1972 when it was first established as a humble prayer house. Over the years, our prayer house grew in numbers and spirit, eventually becoming a full-fledged congregation in September 2012. This milestone marked a significant chapter in our journey, as we continued to spread the Word of God and serve our community. At Rugare C.C.A.P, we envision a community transformed by the love of Christ. We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where people from all walks of life can come together to worship, learn, and grow in their faith.
Sizinda C.C.A.P
Located in the heart of Bulawayo, Sizinda Congregation has been a vibrant and dynamic community of faith since its inception as a congregation in 1996. Previously a branch of the Bulawayo congregation, Sizinda has grown and flourished, becoming a shining example of urban ministry.
As an urban congregation, Sizinda is deeply rooted in the community, with two thriving prayer houses: Tshabalala and Nkulumane. These prayer houses serve as hubs of spiritual growth, fellowship, and outreach, providing a sense of belonging and connection for members. At the helm of Sizinda Congregation is Rev. Kingstar Ellerson Chipata, who has had the distinction of being the congregation's first and longest-serving minister. Under his dedicated leadership, the congregation has continued to grow and thrive, impacting countless lives through its ministry. Today, Sizinda Congregation remains a beacon of hope and light in the city, a testament to the power of faith and community.
Kuwadzana C.C.A.P
Founded in 2004, Kuwadzana Congregation emerged from the vibrant community of Mufakose, becoming a growing center of faith and worship in Harare. Despite not yet having a resident minister, the congregation has flourished, thanks to the dedication of its members and the support of visiting ministers.
The first visiting minister, Rev. Emmanuel Maikolo, provided invaluable leadership while being based at Highfield. His commitment and spiritual guidance were instrumental in the early growth of the congregation. Tragically, after his transfer to Zomba Theological College in Malawi in January 2008, he passed away in February of the same year.
As Kuwadzana continues to develop, the construction of the minister’s house is underway, marking a significant step toward establishing a permanent pastoral presence. The congregation’s prayer houses, located in Warren Park, Dzivaresekwa, and Kuwadzana, serve as vibrant centers of worship, fellowship, and community service.
Despite various challenges, Kuwadzana Congregation remains a testament to faith, resilience, and the power of community. Its unwavering dedication to spiritual growth ensures that it will continue to be a beacon of hope and inspiration for generations to come.
Chegutu C.C.A.P
Located in the heart of Mashonaland West Province, approximately 130 kilometers west of Harare, Chegutu Congregation has been a vibrant and growing community of faith since its establishment in 1998. Initially a branch of Kadoma, Chegutu has evolved into a thriving congregation, proudly serving as the seventeenth congregation in the Synod. For nearly a decade, Chegutu Congregation operated without a resident minister, relying on visiting clergy to provide spiritual guidance. However, in 2008, Rev. Paul Maremero was deployed to the congregation, bringing stability and dedicated leadership. Under his guidance, the congregation has continued to flourish, and Rev. Maremero remains at the helm to this day. Surrounded by fertile farms and bustling mines, Chegutu Congregation is deeply rooted in the local community. The congregation's presence has brought hope, comfort, and spiritual nourishment to the people of Chegutu and beyond. As a testament to its resilience and faith, Chegutu Congregation remains a shining example of Christian community and service.
Norton C.C.A.P
Norton Congregation, the twentieth congregation in the Synod, was officially established on December 11, 2005. Prior to its inception, Norton fell under the umbrella of Mufakose Congregation. Rev. A. Malemelo had the distinction of being the first visiting minister to serve the Norton Congregation, providing spiritual guidance and leadership during its formative years. Strategically situated along the Harare-Bulawayo highway, approximately 30 kilometers west of Harare, Norton Congregation has become a vital hub of Christian community and service. The congregation's branches, located in Kent, Kasabanana, Mutubva, Council, and Green, serve as vibrant centers of worship, fellowship, and outreach, touching the lives of people in the surrounding areas. As a testament to its growth and commitment, Norton Congregation continues to shine as a beacon of hope, spreading the message of love, redemption, and hope to all who seek it.
Zengeza C.C.A.P
Zengeza Congregation: A Vibrant Community of Faith
Located in the eastern part of Harare, in the bustling town of Chitungwiza, Zengeza Congregation has been a shining example of Christian community and service since its establishment in 1980. Prior to its inception, Zengeza was a thriving prayer house under the Harare Congregation. Situated approximately 20 kilometers from Harare's city center, Zengeza Congregation has become a vital hub of spiritual growth and outreach. The congregation's prayer houses, located in Makoni, Seke, and St Mary's, serve as vibrant centers of worship, fellowship, and community service. Although Zengeza Congregation has not had a resident minister since its establishment, the congregation remains strong and resilient, relying on visiting ministers to provide spiritual guidance and support. Despite this challenge, the congregation continues to thrive, spreading the message of hope, love, and redemption to all who seek it.
Gwanda C.C.A.P
We are a vibrant and loving community of believers, proudly part of the Presbyterian Church of Zimbabwe. Our church is situated in the heart of Gwanda, a town in the southern part of Zimbabwe. Gwanda C.C.A.P has a rich history that spans many years. Our church has been a beacon of hope and faith in the community, providing a spiritual home for many. From its humble beginnings to the present day, our church has remained committed to spreading the Gospel and serving the community. At Gwanda C.C.A.P, we envision a community transformed by the love of Christ. We strive to create a warm and welcoming environment where people from all walks of life can come together to worship, learn, and grow in their faith. Our vision is to be a shining example of Christian love and service, making a positive impact on our community. We invite you to join us on this journey of faith! Whether you're looking for a new church home, seeking spiritual guidance, or simply wanting to connect with like-minded individuals, we welcome you with open arms.
Mkoba C.C.A.P
Mkoba Congregation, formerly a branch of Gweru Congregation, officially became the 28th Congregation of the CCAP Synod of Harare on December 7, 2019. This milestone marked a significant step in the growth and expansion of the church in the Gweru region.
Following its establishment as an independent congregation, Rev. Samuel Gonde served as the first visiting minister, providing pastoral leadership and spiritual guidance from 2019 to 2025. His dedication laid the foundation for the congregation's development and strengthened its presence in the community.
In 2025, Rev. M. Rujuwa was appointed as the first resident minister of Mkoba Congregation, marking a new era of localized pastoral care and ministry. With a growing membership and increasing activities, the congregation continues to flourish.
The catchment area of Mkoba Congregation extends from Mkoba itself to Lower Gwelo (Gweru), stretching further towards Shangani. This broad geographical reach allows the congregation to serve diverse communities, spreading the gospel and fostering spiritual growth among its members.
Through faith and dedication, Mkoba Congregation remains committed to its mission, upholding the values and traditions of the CCAP Synod of Harare while embracing new opportunities for growth and service.