AFM in Zimbabwe Secures 50 Hectares for First University at Rufaro

By Nelson Geje

CHATSWORTH, Gutu — The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe has received an additional 50 hectares of land from the Government for the construction of its first university near the Rufaro Conference Centre.

The offer letter was handed over to AFM in Zimbabwe president, Bishop Dr Amon Dubie Madawo, during the church’s National General Conference on Saturday, August 22, 2026.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa was represented by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, who said the proposed institution would contribute to Zimbabwe’s human capital development and support the country’s heritage-based Education 5.0 model.

The university is expected to expand AFM in Zimbabwe’s involvement in education beyond its existing network of 24 schools, vocational training centres and theological education programmes.

Muchinguri-Kashiri said churches had an important role to play in national development through investments in education, healthcare, skills development and community empowerment.

Dr Madawo welcomed the land allocation, describing it as a major step towards the church’s vision of establishing its own university.

He said AFM in Zimbabwe would continue partnering the Government in developing schools, clinics and other projects that benefit communities.

The development could transform Rufaro Conference Centre into a major education and community development hub. The centre, situated in Chatsworth, already hosts Rufaro High School, national church conferences and other AFM programmes.

During the same event, Muchinguri-Kashiri officially commissioned Rufaro Clinic, which was constructed through an initiative of the AFM Young People’s Union with financial assistance from businessman and Senator Kudakwashe Tagwirei.

The clinic is expected to serve at least 6,000 people, including Rufaro High School learners, church members and residents of the surrounding Chatsworth community. It is also expected to reduce the distance residents travel to access healthcare services.

Dr Madawo appealed for further support towards the establishment of a modern science laboratory, fisheries and agricultural projects at Rufaro High School. He also called for equipment, instructors and scholarships for the church’s vocational training centres.

Other infrastructure requirements highlighted included commercial boreholes for the Rufaro Conference Centre and the tarring of the road linking the centre to the Gutu turn-off.

The allocation of university land represents one of the most significant developments in the history of AFM in Zimbabwe’s education ministry. However, details concerning the university’s construction timetable, funding model, academic programmes and opening date have not yet been announced.

The proposed university is expected to serve both AFM members and the wider Zimbabwean population while strengthening access to tertiary education and professional training.