President Emmerson Mnangagwa has challenged religious organisations in Zimbabwe to expand their involvement beyond worship and become key contributors to the country’s economic and social transformation.

Delivering remarks at the National Spiritual Conference, the Head of State said faith communities possess the reach and moral influence needed to support national development programmes, particularly in rural areas.

He urged church leaders to work hand in hand with Government in areas such as agriculture, education, health and infrastructure, saying no meaningful progress can be achieved without the active participation of all sectors of society.

The President noted that churches have historically played a critical role in providing social services and should now formalise their partnerships with public institutions to accelerate community upliftment.

Religious leaders attending the conference welcomed the call and pledged to align their outreach activities with the national development agenda.

The gathering is part of ongoing consultations between the State and the church aimed at fostering unity and shared responsibility in building the Zimbabwean economy.