By Ndumiso Tshuma
The Love Zimbabwe Festival will host a free community event in Bulawayo later this month, bringing together churches, youth groups and local leaders to share the gospel through creative and engaging programmes.
Speaking at a media briefing at Mostsamai Lodge on Tuesday, Bryce Kwant, from Plow Ministries said the vision for the festival grew out of discussions with Bulawayo leaders over the past two years.
“Our desire as Plow Association and the Global Network of Evangelists is to proclaim the good news of salvation through the relationships we have built,” Kwant said.
“We only do this with and through the local church. The aim is not just to create an event but to spark a movement of evangelism. When people give their lives to Jesus, God transforms communities. We want to proclaim the gospel in creative ways, using all the gifts God has given us.”
Bishop Ellison Shava said the festival’s purpose is to demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ to the people of Bulawayo.
“The goal is to present one message, the gospel through diverse expressions that draw people to Christ,” Shava said.
“We are mindful of the challenges facing local communities. That is why we work with churches, equipping them with tools to better engage their communities. Through a process of integral mission, the church and community sit together, identify challenges, and find solutions. This approach has a greater chance of sustainability than external interventions.”
The festival will run from August 28 to 31, 2025, at Amavene Nkulumane Area Primary School, but its reach will extend to Nketa, Entumbane, Emganwini, Tshabalala and Pumula through mobile rallies and other programmes.
Elliot Manadza from the Simuka Youth Programme outlined the build-up activities.
“We will start with a pastors’ refresh and renewal conference for senior ministry leaders,” he said.
“This will be followed by an innovative evangelism workshop, where we use art forms and diverse expressions to reach people not only those already in the church but also those outside who may not respond to traditional preaching.”