As the sun sets over Zimbabwe, the nation finds itself wrapped in both sorrow and reflection. Archbishop Mudzidzi Paul Mamvura Mwazha, the iconic leader and founder of the African Apostolic Church, has gone to rest at the remarkable age of 107.
May his soul rest in peace.
Before anything else let’s applaud the man. Mutumwa Mwazha built one of the most disciplined, organised, and principled churches this continent has ever seen. A church where members are groomed like soldiers, where education is encouraged, where entrepreneurship is celebrated, and where women are empowered, not sidelined.
This is rare. Very rare.
But now, as the nation mourns… another quiet question is moving through living rooms, WhatsApp groups, kombis, and church stands:
“Who is taking over?”
Because the truth is once the founder rests, the real test begins.
THE SUCCESSION PROBLEM AFRICANS DON’T LIKE TALKING ABOUT
Many remember the video that circulated during Covid: family members and some congregants arguing about who should lead the church while Mutumwa was still alive.
If confusion was already brewing back then, what happens now?
Will the church split? Will leadership fight? Will factions rise? Will another great African institution die because we fear one word succession?
See, this is not just a church issue. It’s an African issue. From churches to businesses to political parties, we love founders… …but we fear successors.
LOOK AT PROPHET WALTER MAGAYA: SAY WHAT YOU WANT, BUT LEARN THE LESSON
Hate him, love him, debate him that’s fine. But one thing is clear: the man has a succession plan.
In recent months, his son Junior has been leading prayers, conducting services, guiding the congregation all under the mentorship of his father.
That’s structure. That’s grooming. That’s continuity.
It’s the same thing businesses should be doing, but many owners still say:
“No, my child must not come near my business.” “I built this alone.” “They are too young.”
My brother, my sister… if you die today, your company will die tomorrow.
Because you were the CEO, HR, accountant, head of sales, messenger, board chair, and chief prayer warrior all in one.
THE BIG BUSINESS LESSON: IF YOUR SUCCESS CAN’T BE INHERITED, IT’S NOT SUCCESS
African families have lost farms, churches, schools, mines, and companies because the founder thought succession planning is disrespectful as if death is a suggestion.
You can build for 40 years… …and lose it in 4 months …because the next generation does not know what to do.
Your business must have a:
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Groomed successor
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Clear leadership structure
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Documented systems
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Delegated authority
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Smooth transition plan
If Prophet Magaya can boldly mentor his son in public, why are you hiding your successor like stolen groceries?
MWAZHA’S LEGACY SHOULD TEACH US SOMETHING
Archbishop Mwazha built a powerful spiritual and economic institution. He created a disciplined community that will remain one of Zimbabwe’s most admirable.
But now, the question is: Will the institution outlive the founder? Or will we watch another African story of “It was once great…”?
His passing is not just a moment of mourning. It’s a moment of reflection.
FINAL MESSAGE TO ENTREPRENEURS, PASTORS, FOUNDERS & LEADERS
If your business cannot run without you, then you don’t have a business you have a job with a fancy title.
If your organisation is confused when you travel, imagine what will happen when you die.
African leaders must stop fearing successors. Stop delaying. Stop assuming life is guaranteed.
A legacy without succession is just history waiting to happen.
Groom your successor. Mentor your Junior. Train your second line. Document your systems.
Because one day just like Mutumwa Mwazha you too will rest. And when that day comes, may your vision not be buried with you.
If you’re building a business, ministry, or organisation that must outlive you, don’t leave your legacy to chance. Get in touch with us for sales training, entrepreneurship coaching, and strategy formulation that will strengthen your leadership and secure the future of what you are building. Let’s build institutions that last beyond founders. +263 77 961 9739 | +260 972 936 033
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