How SASA! Faith Helped Open Doors for Women in Apostolic Leadership

For decades women at Kuratidzwa kwaJohane Apostolic Church (KKJAC) in Ward 21, Bikita, played important roles within the congregation but were excluded from senior leadership and key decision-making structures.

Through SASA! Faith religious leaders, Community Activists and congregants engaged in dialogue and Bible reflection on power, justice, dignity and gender equality. These conversations encouraged church leaders to critically reflect on practices that had historically excluded women.

In February 2025, during the church's constitutional review women actively participated and advocated for greater inclusion. The church subsequently amended its constitution and doctrine to allow women to occupy senior leadership and decision-making positions. Three women were then appointed as Rabaoma, a senior prophetic position previously reserved for men.

This demonstrates the power of faith-based dialogue, male champions and sustained engagement to challenge harmful gender norms and create lasting institution.