The Salvation Army Zimbabwe & Botswana

Following years of service in Tanzania and Zambia, Commissioner Vinece Chigariro has returned home to give oversight to the Zimbabwe Territory. Prior to her installation service at Kwekwe Corps, Commissioner Chigaririo received a hero’s welcome as she travelled in the back of an open truck to wave at the masses of Salvationists who lined the streets of Kwekwe to welcome her. The majority of Salvationists who attended the installation service were from the southern region of the territory.

Commissioners Amos and Rosemary Makina, International Secretary for Africa and Zonal Secretary for Women’s Ministries, were present to officially install Commissioner Chigariro as Territorial Commander and Territorial President for Women’s Ministries. At the close of the installation ceremony, Commissioner A. Makina called on all Salvationists to support their new territorial leader.

As Commissioner Chigariro knelt before God and the flag of The Salvation Army, hundreds of Salvationists joined her in prayer as they dedicated themselves to the work of God.

“I have high expectations and you have high expecations,” said Commissioner Chigariro. “My prayer is that my expectations and your expectations will meet and together we will please God.” The Territorial Commander said that she would remain faithful to the Word of God and to the Orders & Regulations of The Salvation Army. In response to a query about Army discipline, the Commissioner said: “I expect all of my officers and soldiers to possess integrity and a passion for service.”

A week later, Commissioner Chigariro was welcomed by the northern region of the territory at Warren Park Corps. While the corps building is one of the largest in the territory, the hall was filled to capacity with hundreds of Salvationists forced to sit outside.

In addition to the many Army speakers tasked with welcoming the Territorial Commander, Chief Chiweshe was invited to share a few words. As the father of Commissioner Chigariro, Chief Chiweshe described her as a woman of integrity and commitment who would lead the territory forward in mission.

The Territorial Band, Songsters and Youth Singers participated in both services, complemented by the various divisional brigades invited to contribute. A highlight from the welcome service was the performance of the Howard High Choir.

Commissioner Chigariro thanked the officers for their faithfulness during these difficult economic times. She also expressed her appreciation to all Salvationists for their attendance and support. “Let us work well together,” she said. “Together we will discover new things.