Abel Muzorewa

Muzorewa 1978 b

Abel Tendekayi Muzorewa (14 April 1925 – 8 April 2010) was a Zimbabwean Methodist bishop and politician. He served as the Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia for a brief period in 1979. Muzorewa was a significant figure in the country's transition from Rhodesia to Zimbabwe.

Early life and education

Muzorewa was born in Old Umtali, Southern Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe). He was educated at the United Methodist Church schools and later attended Central Methodist Mission in Harare. Muzorewa furthered his education in the United States, where he studied at Central Methodist College in Fayette, Missouri and Scarritt College in Nashville, Tennessee.

Religious career

Upon returning to Southern Rhodesia, Muzorewa became a prominent figure in the Methodist Church. He was ordained as a minister and later became a bishop. His work in the church earned him respect and recognition, which he later leveraged in his political career.

Political career

Muzorewa entered politics in the 1970s, becoming the leader of the United African National Council (UANC). He was a key figure in the internal settlement negotiations that led to the creation of Zimbabwe Rhodesia in 1979. Muzorewa became the first and only Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia, serving from 1 June 1979 to 12 December 1979.

Prime Minister of Zimbabwe Rhodesia

Muzorewa's tenure as Prime Minister was short-lived. The Lancaster House Agreement later that year led to the establishment of the Republic of Zimbabwe and the end of his administration. The agreement paved the way for Robert Mugabe to become the first Prime Minister of the newly independent Zimbabwe in 1980.

Later life and legacy

After his brief stint as Prime Minister, Muzorewa continued to be active in politics and the church. He ran for office several times but was unsuccessful. Muzorewa passed away on 8 April 2010 in Harare, Zimbabwe.

See also

• History of Zimbabwe
• Lancaster House Agreement
• Robert Mugabe
• United African National Council