Zimbabwe: Churches Adhere to Directive On Cholera Control

Most Christian denominations have complied with Government measures aimed at containing the spread of cholera during Easter, with supervision by health specialists being upscaled.

Information Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr Jenfan Muswere last week announced measures aimed at minimising the spread of cholera and a snap survey yesterday showed that most churches were compliant.

"In light of the impending Easter Holidays, Cabinet has directed the Ministry of Health and Child Care to intensify monitoring and supervision of all gatherings to minimise the spread of cholera," said Dr Muswere.

In an interview yesterday Vapostori and MaZion for ED national spokesperson Madzibaba Obey Mapuranga said they adhered to the regulations as directed by the Government and even stopped larger gatherings.

"We had our Easter celebration in peace and harmony with no cholera or malaria casualties," he said.

"At the Nyika Shrine in Chiweshe, we postponed the celebrations because of large numbers. We will organise the celebrations in fewer and more manageable numbers," said Madzibaba Mapuranga.

United Methodist Church deputy administrative assistant to the bishop, Mrs Vienna Mutezo said all necessary precautions had been taken to prevent cholera.

"In most parts of Harare, I observed that toilets were regularly cleaned with children being closely monitored," she said.

"Kitchens were regularly cleaned and food was served whilst hot with most members acting as health officers making sure that their counterparts were kept healthy and safe."

Lutheran Church Bishop Vushebwashe Mhaka also said: "We had Easter celebrations in very small numbers to make sure we adhered to the prescribed regulations with most congregants sleeping and eating at their homes," he said.

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