Mnangagwa declares Paul Mwazha a national hero

President Emmerson Mnangagwa has conferred national hero status on the late founder of the African Apostolic Church, Paul Mwazha, who passed away on Thursday at the age of 107 after a long illness.

Information Permanent Secretary Nick Mangwana confirmed the conferment, announcing on his X account: "Mutumwa Apostle Mwazha, a National Hero. His Excellency President E.D. Mnangagwa has conferred National Hero status upon Mutumwa Apostle Paul Mwazha. Burial arrangements will be announced and guided by the family."

Apostle Mwazha becomes the second clergyman to receive this honour from President Mnangagwa, following the late Archbishop Ezekiel Guti, founder of the Zimbabwe Assemblies of God Africa (ZAOGA), who was granted national hero status in 2023.

Traditionally reserved for politicians, the conferment of national hero status on religious leaders and artists reflects a growing trend under Mnangagwa's administration to recognise individuals who have made a significant impact on society beyond the political sphere.