Vongai Masuka

President Emmerson Munangagwa has declared Archbishop Paul Mwazha, the revered founder and leader of the African Apostolic Church (AAC) a national hero.

The centenarian clergyman, whose followers affectionately refer to him as Mutumwa (Angelic Messenger) or Mudzidzisi (Teacher), died two days ago at 107.

Born Ernest Paul Mamvura Mwazha on October 25, 1918, in Chirumanzu District, near Mvuma, Mwazha’s life spanned the greater part of a century, making him one of the country’s most enduring and respected spiritual figures.

The formal announcement was made by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services, Nick Mangwana.

“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.” Mangwana wrote on his X handle.

Originally a qualified teacher who attended Howard Teaching Institute, he transitioned into clerical ministry and founded the African Apostolic Church in 1953 following a spiritual revival.

The AAC, also known as VaApostora veAfrica, grew into a major denomination across the country and the region, distinguished by its unique practices and dress code.

Mwazha himself was instantly recognizable, having maintained a long, untrimmed beard as a vow since the church’s founding.