Photo Credit: The Rev. Cosmas Chafanza (third from left) greets members after church service at Magamba Circuit’s new sanctuary in Rusape, Zimbabwe. The circuit is seeing growth through its evangelism and outreach efforts. Photo by Kudzai Chingwe, UM News.
By Kudzai Chingwe
Aug. 21, 2026 | RUSAPE, Zimbabwe (UM News)
Magamba Circuit, one of the fastest‑growing circuits in The United Methodist Church in Zimbabwe, shines as a beacon of faith, evangelism and stewardship.
Established four years ago with about 300 members, the circuit in the Makoni Buhera District has expanded to 445 congregants. Between January and June this year, the circuit celebrated the winning of 69 souls.
“These achievements are the result of aggressive evangelism, vibrant worship, prayer, deliverance and outdoor outreach,” said the Rev. Cosmas Chafanza, pastor‑in‑charge of Magamba Circuit.
A circuit is two or more local churches who share pastoral supervision. Magamba has four catchment areas, with members coming together for worship each week in the circuit’s newly built sanctuary in Rusape.
Chafanza reflected on the extraordinary progress since being appointed at the beginning of the year. He highlighted infrastructure progress, noting the state‑of‑the‑art sanctuary built in 2022, and a parsonage that is under construction, all supported by donations, fundraising and church budgets.
He also emphasized the episcopal goal of 5% membership growth across the Zimbabwe, Zambia, Malawi and Botswana Episcopal Area, proudly stating that Magamba has already surpassed the target.
“Evangelism at Magamba is not confined to the pulpit. The circuit has embraced holistic ministry, combining preaching with acts of compassion such as providing food and clothing to those in need,” Chafanza said.
“This Christlike character has attracted many, proving that evangelism thrives when faith is lived out in practical ways.”
Magamba has emerged as a financial backbone for the district, consistently supporting the wider mission through generous giving, transparent stewardship and faithful accountability.
The new sanctuary and parsonage position the circuit as a model of sustainability. Preparations also are underway for a major crusade scheduled for September, expected to draw large crowds and win more souls to Christ.
Mashinga Mukaronda, chairperson of the circuit’s board of trustees, traced Magamba’s roots to 2008, with its elevation to circuit status in 2022 marking a new chapter of growth and responsibility.
“This history reflects a journey of faith, resilience and steady progress, showing how God has guided the church from humble beginnings into a recognized circuit that continues to expand its mission and impact,” Mukaronda said.
The Rev. Crispen Musuruware, Magamba District superintendent, applauded its remarkable growth in membership, giving and infrastructure. He said its success inspires other circuits operating under the same economic conditions.
“The congregation is showing deep spiritual maturity,” he said. “Their resilience and success demonstrate that with faithful stewardship, circuits can thrive and accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God.”
Finance chairperson Anna Muringwa described Magamba as a financial pillar where congregants consistently contribute tithes, offerings and harvest gifts. Funds support district meetings, leadership development, revivals, vehicle maintenance, utilities, staff salaries and infrastructure.
“Transparency and accountability have strengthened trust, making donations easier to come,” she said. “Financial stewardship at Magamba is not merely about raising funds, but about empowering ministry.
“This balance between spiritual growth and financial sustainability has strengthened the wider mission of the district and conference.”
District lay leader Agatha Mutibu added that effective communication through WhatsApp groups and weekly financial reports promotes transparency and discipleship, encouraging faithful giving.
“Other circuits can learn from Magamba’s commitment to transparent financial management, regular communication, discipleship and responsible stewardship,” Mutibu said.
Circuit lay leader Livingston Chindudzi emphasized hospitality as a key factor in growth.
“People feel at home and invite others, creating a chain of growth. We nurture new members and make them feel part of the family.”
This culture of love and kindness has made Magamba a welcoming community where members are not only retained but also become ambassadors, inviting others to join.
Evangelism chairperson Hebert Nyakawuta highlighted the circuit’s reputation for well‑organized crusades since 2024. He recalled a seven‑day crusade that brought nearly 30 new souls through door‑to‑door evangelism and high‑profile preaching.
Nyakawuta explained that evangelism at Magamba also includes social outreach.
“Church and Society programs gather clothes and food to help those in need. When Christlike character is demonstrated, it becomes a great harvest of souls, even from those passing by the road. Our motto is love, unity, peace, harmony and Christlike character.”
Looking ahead, Chafanza outlined ambitious plans including the September crusade, door‑to‑door evangelism and organizational revivals for women, men, youth and junior Sunday school.
“The objective is simple: bringing more souls to Christ for the transformation of the world, restoring prayer life and commitment, warming broken hearts, healing the sick and offering counseling to victims of drug addiction, domestic violence, unemployment and other social challenges,” he said.
Chingwe is a communicator for the Zimbabwe East Conference.
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