Masvingo Braces for 100,000 Youth at AFM’s Landmark Elevation Conference
ALL roads lead to the Rufaro Conference Centre in Chatsworth next week as the Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) in Zimbabwe gears up to host its highly anticipated National Youth Elevation Conference.
Running from April 9 to 12, the four-day spiritual gathering is expected to draw a staggering crowd of over 100,000 young people from across Zimbabwe and neighbouring countries for what organisers are calling a “landmark spiritual encounter.”
Leading the spiritual charge is the President of AFM in Zimbabwe, Rev. Dr Amon D. Madawo, who has officially called on the youth to “do it again this year,” setting high expectations for a weekend of life-changing sermons and deliverance.
He will be joined on the podium by a diverse and heavyweight roster of local and international speakers. Among them is Pastor Thandanani Savhasa, a guest speaker from AFM South Africa who also serves as the AFM International Youth President. Savhasa is widely recognised for her powerful focus on spiritual growth and leadership.
Also steering the event is National Youth Leader Pastor B. Shonhiwa, who has been instrumental in mobilizing the nationwide “Elevation” movement, alongside Pastor R.B. Matewe, who recently urged attendees to come prepared for a “tangible move of God.”
Beyond the preaching, the conference promises to be a massive musical celebration, featuring some of the most prominent voices in Southern African gospel.
A major highlight of the weekend will be a special “Zimpraise Legacy Night,” celebrating the award-winning choir’s 20 years in the music industry. The Rufaro stage will also host South African gospel sensation Sbu Noah, who is confirmed to bring his unique brand of soulful worship to the event.
The high-energy musical lineup is further bolstered by Takesure Zamar, the Joyfull Praise Choir, Unveiled, Worshipper L. Gunda, Nyasha Mutonhori, Baba and Mai Cherai, Vabati Vajehova, and Wesley Nyamukuta, ensuring a deeply diverse musical experience throughout the four days.
While the massive gathering is rooted in faith, organisers have emphasised that the 2026 conference carries a strong mission of practical community impact.
In a major philanthropic push, attendees are being encouraged to donate toward the Rufaro Clinic building project. Spearheaded by the AFM Youth Department, the initiative aims to significantly improve local healthcare services in the Chatsworth and broader Masvingo region.
Furthermore, the conference will break away from traditional church services to offer specialised empowerment sessions. Young attendees will have access to workshops focused on leadership development, entrepreneurship, and academic excellence, equipping them for success in both their spiritual and professional lives.
With tents going up and logistical preparations entering their final stages this week, Chatsworth is readying itself for an unprecedented influx of young believers, all looking toward a weekend of elevation, empowerment, and legacy.
