Churches Join Police in Crime Fight as Victoria Falls Launches Christian Community Police Network

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Victoria Falls District has officially launched the Christian Community Police Network (CCPN), a community-driven initiative designed to strengthen partnerships between law enforcement agencies and churches in the fight against crime and social challenges affecting communities.

The launch followed a three-day workshop which commenced on 3 June 2026 and culminated in a vibrant procession and closing ceremony held today, bringing together church leaders, police officers and community representatives from across the district.

The procession started at the Police Camp and proceeded through Maplankeni before concluding at ZAOGA Church, where delegates gathered for the official launch ceremony and keynote address.

Pastors and church leaders from Jambezi, Matetsi, Monde, Chisuma and Victoria Falls City attended the event, demonstrating the growing commitment of faith-based organisations to work alongside law enforcement in promoting peace, security and community development.

Addressing delegates as Guest of Honour, Chief Superintendent Tavaziva, Officer Commanding Victoria Falls District, underscored the critical role churches can play in crime prevention, community mobilisation and the promotion of positive values.

He noted that pastors interact with large congregations on a regular basis, placing them in a unique position to influence behaviour, discourage criminal activities and support police efforts through community awareness and moral guidance.

“The fight against crime is not the responsibility of the police alone. It requires the collective participation of every sector of society, including churches, whose influence extends to thousands of people within our communities,” said Chief Superintendent Tavaziva.

The workshop also featured presentations from Dr Bishop and Bishop Chabuka from Harare, members of the CCPN National Committee, who delivered comprehensive lectures explaining the objectives, structure and operational framework of the Christian Community Police Network.

The two church leaders highlighted the importance of fostering strong partnerships between the police and the church, emphasizing that the CCPN seeks to build safer communities through information sharing, crime prevention education, youth empowerment and the promotion of ethical and moral values.

Participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of peace within their congregations and communities, helping to identify and address social issues that often contribute to criminal behaviour.

The launch of the CCPN in Victoria Falls marks a significant step towards strengthening community policing initiatives in the district and reinforces the growing recognition that churches remain key stakeholders in building safer, more resilient communities.

As the programme expands, church leaders pledged to actively support police efforts by mobilising congregants, promoting lawful conduct and fostering a culture of shared responsibility in maintaining peace and security across the Victoria Falls District.

By Witness A Phiri