Staff Writer
MUTARE – Archbishop Andby Makururu, leader of Johanne The Fifth of Africa, has introduced a new requirement for his trusted lieutenants: prophets and prophetesses must now possess at least Ordinary Level qualifications to lead congregants within his church.
Archbishop Makururu made these remarks yesterday in Mutare at his Parushanga Shrine, where he was officiating at a graduation ceremony honoring prophets and prophetesses who had successfully completed a leadership and spiritual guidance program.
Following this event, Makururu is set to travel to Mozambique to confer the same recognition upon other prophets there.
His church boasts numerous branches across the Southern African Region and globally.
During his speech, delivered after honoring several prophets and prophetesses from across the country, Makururu urged them to prioritize unity.
“We want real prophets, who have respect and real order,” he stated. “If you want to be a prophet of Johanne The Fifth of Africa, you should have certain qualifications.
“We are now looking for our prophets and prophetesses in Zimbabwe to have ‘Ordinary Level’ qualifications. The reason we are doing this is because there are times you lead people with diplomas or degrees, and there is a certain communication that should be done.”
Makururu, who oversees hundreds of prophets and prophetesses nationwide, further emphasized the importance of effective communication.
“As church leaders, we should be good communicators, and the way we communicate should set a good example for people,” he said, adding, “and we expect you to be honest and also to know the ideology of the country.”
He also urged his prophets to be proficient counselors and business-minded individuals. In line with this vision, Makururu pledged to establish a “school of prophets” in the near future, stating he is actively seeking a suitable location for the institution.
Beyond his ecclesiastical duties, Archbishop Makururu has recently gained international recognition. Last week, he was awarded a Solidarity Award by the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates for his unwavering support to the people of Palestine.
This prestigious accolade represents the highest order of award given to religious leaders, conferred at the discretion of the country’s President.
Makururu has frequently met with Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa at State House and during church gatherings, and recently held a meeting with Mozambican President Daniel Chapo in Mozambique.
