Making his first public address as the Mpumalanga Premier, Mandla Ndlovu delivered a message to the women of the Methodist Church of Southern Africa during their week-long ninth Women’s Manyano Triennial Convention at the Communio Auditorium, declaring his unwavering support for women empowerment.
He made his visit on Friday July 12 to encourage these women to take a stand to fight against the challenges they face daily. He urged the Manyano Connexion to pray for peace in South Africa’s new Democratic Government of National Unity and the rest of Africa.
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“Most women in the Bible gave faithfully and never waited for things to be done for them. These women were game-changers in their families and in the kingdom of God. They did not allow themselves to be compared with other women.
I encourage each and everyone present to strive for excellence in whatever positions they hold. We need women who understand spiritual times just like Mary when she told Jesus to do God’s work. I believe such conventions give meaning to that,” Ndlovu said.
“We need women of wisdom who are God fearing who do not take wrong instructions. The world needs women who will pray steadfastly against the killing of women and children and speak out on the challenges they face. Women, arise. This is your time,” he said.
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The convention began on July 10 and concluded on July 14, and saw empowering sessions take place every day that aimed at skills development, evangelism, church growth and community development.
The induction of the Manyano Connexion’s ninth president, Modiegi Edith Tau, and her executive committee also took place, facilitated by the presiding bishop, Rev Pumla Nzimande.
The connexion includes members from the 15 districts of the church in South Africa and neighbouring countries. Its secretary-general Nontobeko Socikwa-Matyesha said it was an honour for the convention to be graced by the first citizen of Mpumalanga.
“We see ourselves as visitors in the province and we appreciate him for taking the time to pass on a message of support and encouragement at the convention,” she said.