By Johannes Mike Mupisa
MASVINGO – Leader of the Masvingo Province Masowe, Alderman Against Chiteme aka Madzibaba Reginai, is spearheading a major transformation and realignment within the Johanne Masowe eChishanu apostolic movement to make it modern and more attractive.
Historically, the apostolic sect had become synonymous with the proliferation of both flagged and non-flagged groups operating in bushes and on the outskirts of towns, often without proper sanitary facilities. However, the Rhodene Sect in Masvingo is now being viewed as a symbol of change and modernisation within the movement.
Situated about 2km along Harare Road after the Masvingo Showgrounds, the Rhodene shrine boasts modern facilities including state-of-the-art ablution amenities, electricity and tapped water — developments that are uncommon in many apostolic worship centres.
Madzibaba Reginai himself has also ventured into business, owning a shopping mall in Rujeko A Suburb, a state of the art service station and several other entrepreneurial enterprises. He is also known for driving top-of-the-range vehicles, reflecting what followers describe as a shift towards empowerment and dignity within the sect which is often known for poverty and making metal tins and pots.
Speaking during a recent gathering, Madzibaba Reginai said the time had come for apostolic sects to redefine their image.
“Nguva yakwana yekuti chipostori chiite chiremera. We want to erase the cult label attached to our sect and become a formidable religious force,” he said.
On April 25, approximately 5 000 congregants gathered at the Rhodene Sect for a major religious function attended by several prominent prophetic leaders from across the country.
Among those present were Madzibaba Garai of Zimuto Camp, Madzibaba Benjamin of Duma in Bikita, Madzibaba Kizito of Exor, Madzibaba Benjamin of Neshuro, Madzibaba Portriver of Gaviro, Madzibaba Gilbert of Gutu, and Madzibaba Eswedge of Don Bosco.
Madzibaba Teginai of Zaka, Madzibaba Shuto from Gutu, Madzibaba Vunganai, Madzibaba Regie from Chiwara as well as Madzibaba Creby and Madzibaba Trevor from Chirumhanzu, among others.
Observers noted that such unity among apostolic prophets had rarely been witnessed since the sect’s inception, highlighting growing calls for cohesion and structured leadership within the movement.
Madzibaba Reginai credited the unity drive to senior figures within the apostolic community.
“We thank Madzibaba Moses Gwanzura for initiating the idea of uniting prophets. Mukuru werudo. We also acknowledge Madzibaba Sir Wicknell mukuru wemazuva for giving direction to the sect and supporting its realignment,” he said.
The Johanne Masowe eChishanu sect has, in recent years, increasingly projected itself as an organised religious body aligned with national development aspirations.
Although apostolic sects have at times faced criticism over their involvement in politics, congregants at the gathering maintained that their spiritual leader, Baba Johanne, encouraged followers to support the Government of the day.
During the gathering, congregants led by Madzibaba Chiteme also prayed for peace and stability in the country and expressed support for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3.
