By Pride Joseni
Judea ZCC Media
Makanyaneng, South Africa: The Last Roundup Conference, held from February 28 to March 1, 2026, at the new Judea Zion Christian Church site in Makanyaneng, South Africa, served as both a spiritual milestone and a poignant call to action for the Zimbabwean diaspora. Under the leadership of His Grace Bishop Chikamba, the South Africa Zone gathered in a spirit of joy and unity, yet the heart of the message delivered was one of profound parental responsibility. As congregants from various branches celebrated the outreach program, the bishop turned his focus toward the future of the younger generation, specifically addressing those parents living and working in South Africa while their children remain in Zimbabwe.
Bishop Chikamba’s address was marked by a blend of empathy and firm exhortation. He spoke directly to the reality of the diaspora experience, acknowledging the hard work of those who have moved abroad to seek better opportunities. However, he cautioned that this labor is in vain if it does not translate into the advancement of their children’s lives. In a vivid and moving illustration of the hardships faced by some children back home, he stated,
“Hatifari kuona mwana wako achitakurira muguri wechibage mubepa resugar kana kuona achipusha umwe mwana pabhasikoro iwe mubereki tichiti uri kuno kuSouth Africa kubasa.”
His message was clear: no child should be left to struggle with the basics of life while their parent is working abroad under the banner of providing for the family.
The core of the Bishop’s message centered on the transformative power of education. He reminded the gathered parents that the window of opportunity to invest in a child’s intellect and future is limited.
“Dzidzo yakakosha, dzidzisai vana ava nguva nemukana zvichiripo,” he urged, emphasizing that education is the most vital tool a young person can possess in the modern world. By prioritizing school fees and academic support, parents ensure that their sacrifices in South Africa result in a legacy of stability and success for the next generation.
Despite the serious nature of this appeal, the conference was characterized by an atmosphere of immense joy and communal pride. The outreach program successfully brought together people from across the South Africa Zone, fostering a sense of belonging and spiritual renewal. As the event concluded, the attendees left not only with a strengthened faith but with a renewed commitment to their families. Bishop Chikamba’s words served as a powerful reminder that while work may take a parent across borders, their primary mission remains the upliftment and education of the children they left behind.
His Grace Bishop Chikamba encourages Judea ZCC members to start preparing for the 2026 Easter conference, to be held in Zaka Jerera at Judea ZCC Headquarters in Muchechetere.