Zambia praised for liberation support and cultural ties

Jabulani Sibanda

By Staff Reporter

Zanu‑PF Bulawayo Provincial Chairman Jabulani Sibanda has lauded Zambia’s historic role in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and highlighted the deep cultural and religious ties that continue to bind the two countries. Speaking at the Council for Churches in Africa (CCA) 2026 Culture of Purity theme launch in Bulawayo, Sibanda framed Zambia as a steadfast partner whose hospitality and logistical support were instrumental to Zimbabwe’s fight for independence.

Sibanda recalled how Zambia provided sanctuary, supplies and safe passage to freedom fighters during the colonial era, arguing that any account of Zimbabwe’s liberation is incomplete without acknowledging Zambia’s contributions. He described the relationship between the two nations as extending beyond diplomatic ties into shared cultural practices and religious fellowship, noting that indigenous churches on both sides of the border play a role in promoting morality, unity and community development.

“The foundation and liberation of Zimbabwe cannot be discussed without mentioning Zambia,” Sibanda said, emphasising that cross‑border church networks have helped sustain social cohesion and moral values. He framed the CCA’s Culture of Purity theme as part of a broader effort to safeguard African cultural heritage and to resist moral erosion in the face of modern pressures.

Archbishop Dr Rocky Moyo, founder president of the CCA, used the platform to call on church leaders across Africa to partner more closely with governments in promoting sustainable development and national identity. He urged religious institutions to be active agents in combating immorality and cultural decline, arguing that faith communities have a responsibility to nurture ethical behaviour and social justice while respecting state institutions.

The event also featured remarks from Bishop Dr Brian Kalikiti, president of the CCA’s Zambian chapter, who praised Zimbabwe’s non‑discriminatory policies that, he said, enable churches to operate freely and contribute to social and economic life. Kalikiti highlighted the ease of worship and the favourable environment for faith‑based organisations, crediting policy stability for fostering peace and facilitating cross‑border religious collaboration.

Organisers framed the launch as both a celebration of shared history and a call to action. Delegates discussed practical steps for strengthening church‑government partnerships, including community outreach, moral education programmes and joint initiatives to address social ills such as substance abuse and family breakdown. The emphasis on Ubuntu and communal responsibility resonated throughout the programme, reflecting a desire to root development efforts in local cultural values.

Observers noted that the event underscored the enduring legacy of regional solidarity forged during the liberation era and the continuing relevance of faith networks in shaping civic life. By foregrounding cultural preservation alongside development goals, the CCA and its partners signalled a commitment to harnessing religious influence for social cohesion and moral renewal across southern Africa.