In the sprawling settlement of Epworth, Harare, a shocking investigation has uncovered a network of deception within the religious landscape. Unemployed youths and commercial sex workers are being paid a paltry $20 to stage fake miracles and prophecies at churches, preying on the desperation and faith of congregations.

According to Richard Maribi, a recruiter for these fake prophets, “I would speak to them in clear terms. I would tell them, ‘I want real actors since we are going to be acting and everything must appear real’.” These “mabhidhiri” actors are meticulously trained to feign possession, illness, or affliction, creating a spectacle that draws in more followers and, consequently, more money.

One commercial sex worker, Rhumba, revealed that she earns $20 per church service, saying, “This is a better trade compared to the risky thigh vending, which exposes me to sexually transmitted infections and robbers.” Chiedza Ganhire, a single mother, shared her experience of pretending to be mentally ill for a week to fake a miracle. She pocketed $100 and donations from congregants after being “healed.” A self-styled bishop, Kevin Nyamukanga, even confessed to having been involved in similar practices before his repentance.

The investigation reveals a well-knit network of tricksters and polished actors who charge $10 to $20 per church service. James Mundati, a “mabhidhiri” coordinator, admitted to marketing upcoming prophets and church leaders, saying, “I go around advertising these churches, especially in remote areas. We plant people who will give testimonies of how they would have been helped.”

The Zimbabwe Council of Churches (ZCC) claims it can’t intervene, citing its voluntary nature. Pastor Lloyd Jarrison of the Zimbabwe Young Christian Founders and Ministers Association condemned the practice, urging authorities to take action. “There is a disturbing trend of false preachers who are capitalizing on the tough economic conditions to con people of their hard-earned money,” he said.

The investigation reveals a disturbing trend of exploitation and manipulation of faith for financial gain. As Mundati put it, “I consider what I do as business and never think about the consequences.” The fake miracle industry has become a lucrative business, preying on the vulnerable and the faithful.

 source-the observer