ABOUT US
The Salvation Army, an international movement, is an Evangelicalpart of the universal Christian Church.
Its message is based on the Bible. Its ministry is motivated by the love of God.
Its mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and to meet human needs in his name without discrimination.
Our Story
The Salvation Army’s ministry in Zimbabwe traces its roots to the late 19th century, a time of missionary courage and vision. A pioneer party led by Major and Mrs. Pascoe set out from Kimberley, South Africa, on 5 May 1891 in a wagon drawn by 18 oxen, journeying across rough and often dangerous terrain. After more than six months on the road, they finally arrived in Fort Salisbury (now Harare) on 18 November 1891, marking the beginning of The Salvation Army’s presence in what was then known as Rhodesia.
The early Salvationists faced many challenges, harsh conditions, long distances, and limited resources, yet they pressed on with faith and determination. Their work quickly grew as they preached the Gospel, established outposts, and extended the ministry of compassion through schools, clinics, and social centres.
By 1 May 1931, the work had expanded sufficiently for Rhodesia to become a separate Salvation Army Territory, distinct from the South African Command. This milestone affirmed the growth of the local ministry and the leadership capacity that had developed within the country.
When Rhodesia became known as Zimbabwe in 1980, The Salvation Army continued to play a vital role in the new nation, ministering not only through corps (churches) but also through hospitals, schools, and social service centres that cared for the most vulnerable. Over the decades, The Salvation Army has been a beacon of hope in times of both peace and crisis, including during the difficult years of economic and social transition.
In the years that followed, the work of The Salvation Army continued to expand regionally. The mission in Botswana was officially recognised in 1997, extending the reach of the Territory’s ministry beyond Zimbabwe’s borders. The Army’s focus in Botswana has grown through community service, church planting, and youth empowerment initiatives.
In 2015, the growing work in Madagascar was placed under the care of the Zimbabwe Territory, reflecting a new era of regional leadership. This ministry was officially inaugurated on 28 October 2016, marking a historic step forward in the Army’s mission in the Indian Ocean region.
To reflect this broader mandate, on 1 April 2017, the Territory was renamed the Zimbabwe and Botswana Territory, encompassing Zimbabwe and Botswana.
The Salvation Army in Zimbabwe and Botswana continues to live out its mission to “preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination.” The gospel is preached in many languages — Shona, Ndebele, English, Chitonga, Tswana, and Malagasy — reflecting the diversity of the people it serves.
The Salvation Army is known locally as:
In Ndebele: Impi yoSindiso
In Shona: Hondo yoRuponiso
In Malagasy: TafikaFamonjena
As a Territory we publish the Zimbabwe Salvationist, a periodical that captures the life, ministry, and testimonies of Salvationists across the region.
Over a century after that first ox-drawn wagon entered Fort Salisbury, The Salvation Army remains a steadfast force for God and humanity a movement of faith, service, and transformation that continues to shine the light of Christ across Zimbabwe, Botswana, and Madagascar.
Mission and Vision
The Salvation Army’s mission is to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and meet human needs in His name without discrimination. They express their faith through various activities and services that address the spiritual, material, emotional, and relational needs of individuals. Their vision includes a commitment to caring for people, transforming lives, and reforming society by embodying God’s love and compassion.
Our Values
In addition to their core values, The Salvation Army promotes mutual accountability, encouraging individuals to take responsibility for their actions and to support one another in their mission. This value is rooted in the belief that loving God and loving others is essential to their identity and mission as a Christian organization.
These values and principles guide The Salvation Army in their efforts to create positive change in communities and to serve those in need with compassion and integrity.