A high-powered delegation of religious leaders and eminent clergy from the Fellowship of Christian Councils in Southern Africa is in the country for a four-day visit ahead of the country’s elections.

Zimbabwe is going to hold elections on 31 July.

In a statement to the media, Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) said the clergy men and women who are heads of national councils of churches in their respective countries are in the country on their (ZCC) invitation.

ZCC said the visitors are drawn from eight Southern African countries.

 Below are the names and countries where the visitors are coming from.

Rev. Lucas Amosse – Board Mozambique Council- Mozambique, Rev. Pearson Banda- Zambia, Rev. Chizason Chunda- Zambia, Rev. Suzanne Matale –Zambia, Rev. Gideon C. M. Dlamini- Swaziland, Mr Godfrey Mkandawire- Malawi, Rev. Rupert Isaac Hambira Botswana, Bishop Gilford Immanuel Matonga- Malawi, Rev. Mmachakga Mpho Moruakgomo-Botswana (Head of delegation), Gosiame Goodenough Chaobi- South Africa, Mrs Elma Dienda Namibia, Mrs Masara Idlette Mathaha –Lesotho.

 “During their visit they will meet heads of churches, civic groups, government departments and administrators involved in the preparation and conduct of the elections and will receive first-hand information regarding the country’s readiness for polls.  The delegation is visiting the following cities: Chinhoyi, Bindura, Harare, Masvingo, Mutare, Gweru, and Bulawayo”, ZCC said.

“The visit is an expression of the ecumenical movements’ solidarity with Zimbabweans. The delegation will also witness the churches’ reconciliation work in the country”.

The delegation will support the church in Zimbabwe in promoting and praying for peace as the country heads for elections. The church has an important role to play in advocating for peace, justice and reconciliation.