AFM in Zimbabwe Children’s Department works on Learning Materials Amid Strong National Growth

By Nelson Geje

The AFM in Zimbabwe Children’s Department is working on securing learning materials, along recording significant national growth, with an annual conference that attracted 11,600 children in 2025.

The issue of learning materials emerged as a key challenge in the department’s report presented by National Superintendent Rev Precious Mupereki to the department councillors. Despite the shortage, the department continues to expand its programmes and national reach.

AFM in Zimbabwe President, Bishop Amon D. Madawo, commended councillors for their resilience in managing children’s ministry, noting that working with children requires patience. He pledged continued support to ensure the department overcomes its challenges and sustains its progress.

The report highlights the success of the Annual Conference held from 11 to 14 December, where all teaching objectives were met. Favourable weather conditions allowed uninterrupted proceedings, and no serious injuries were recorded, reinforcing the department’s commitment to child safety.

Earlier in the year, a National Seminar held from 21 to 23 February drew over 300 delegates from all provinces, reflecting strong participation and engagement across the country.

The department also participated in the Triennial Conference and Council in Zambia, which was described as successful. Rev Mupereki was elected the Apostolic Faith Mission International Children Department treasurer.

However, alongside the shortage of learning materials, the report noted discipline challenges among older children during conferences, but they later discovered that it was mainly perpetrated by local people and drivers. However, the department plans to address the issue through strengthened systems in 2026.

In terms of future planning, the National Seminar for 2026 was deferred pending guidance from church leadership. The department will instead conduct regional seminars across five regions between May and September 2026:

Greater Manicaland: 27–29 May 2026

Greater Bulawayo: 12–14 June 2026

Greater Masvingo & Beitbridge: 26–28 June 2026

Greater Midlands: 28–30 August 2026

Greater Harare: 11–13 September 2026

Rev Mupereki expressed gratitude for the department’s achievements despite the challenges, emphasizing a continued commitment to improving programme delivery.

“We give glory to God for the successes and for His sustaining hand despite the challenges,” the report stated, while also acknowledging the leadership of Bishop Madawo and the support of councillors.

The report was anchored on Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”