Itorero Authentic Word Ministries/Zion Temple Celebration Center (AWM/ZTCC) has apologized to nurses and midwives, as well as others who may have been offended by comments made by its leader, Apotre Dr Paul Gitwaza Muhirwa. The comments were made during a sermon two months ago and have been circulating on social media. In the sermon, Gitwaza reportedly advised parents to be cautious of people who touch their newborns, suggesting that some nurses and midwives may be possessed by evil spirits.

The comments sparked widespread criticism and outrage, with many accusing Gitwaza of disrespecting the nursing profession. AWM/ZTCC released a statement acknowledging that the comments had caused offense and hurt to some people, particularly nurses and midwives. The statement said that the organization did not intend to undermine the importance of the nursing profession or the role of nurses and midwives in society.

AWM/ZTCC emphasized that it values the contributions of nurses and midwives, who play a critical role in saving lives and promoting the well-being of communities. The organization also acknowledged that it has worked with healthcare professionals, including nurses, in its community development initiatives. The apology was made after the organization engaged with leaders representing nurses and midwives to express its regret and discuss ways to promote understanding and collaboration.

The incident has highlighted the importance of thoughtful communication, particularly for public figures and leaders who have a large following. AWM/ZTCC noted that it has a responsibility to promote a message of love, unity, and respect, and that it will strive to be more mindful of the impact of its words on others. The organization also expressed its commitment to continuing its mission of spreading the word of God and promoting community development.

The controversy surrounding Gitwaza's comments has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of respecting healthcare professionals and the role they play in society. Nurses and midwives are critical to the delivery of healthcare services, and their work is essential to promoting the health and well-being of communities. The apology from AWM/ZTCC has been seen as a positive step towards healing and reconciliation.

The incident has also raised questions about the relationship between faith-based organizations and the healthcare sector. AWM/ZTCC has a history of working with healthcare professionals and promoting community development initiatives. The organization has emphasized its commitment to promoting understanding and collaboration between different sectors and communities.

In conclusion, the apology from Itorero Zion Temple is a reminder of the importance of respectful communication and the need to value the contributions of all professionals, including nurses and midwives. The incident has highlighted the need for greater understanding and collaboration between different sectors and communities, and the importance of promoting a message of love, unity, and respect.

Key points

  • Itorero Zion Temple apologized for comments made by its leader that were perceived as disrespecting the nursing profession.
  • The organization values the contributions of nurses and midwives and recognizes their critical role in promoting the health and well-being of communities.
  • The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the importance of respecting healthcare professionals and the role they play in society.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.