By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
AN evangelist pilgrim carrying a life-size cross walking from Cape Town to Israel in prayer for rains for the continent has arrived in Zimbabwe through Beitbridge.
Evangelist Reini Coetzee, a South African missionary’s expedition, is called “Cross Walk Africa”.
The evangelist, who serves with Revelation Ministries in South Africa, was warmly welcomed in Beitbridge by Mayor Peter Pirato Mafuta, Women’s Quota Councillor Brenda Maworere, and Public Relations Officer Mr. Raniel Ndou.
Coetzee, who began his mission on March 16, said his journey aims to pray for Africa, intercede for rain, and minister to the people he meets along the way.
“My mission is to pray for the continent of Africa, for rains, and to pray for people along the way,” he said.
Having traveled for seven months, Coetzee is currently resting in Zimbabwe before continuing his journey to Mozambique.
He said he has been granted 31 days to pass through the country.
“I take time to rest and recover as I move from one country to another,” Coetzee explained.
The evangelist’s planned route will take him through Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania, Kenya, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Egypt, and finally Israel.
He possibly aims to walk a distance of nearly 10,000 kilometers, which would take over 2,000 continuous hours on foot.
While there is no direct walking route, driving would take roughly 145 hours, and flying remains the fastest option: a flight from Cape Town International Airport to Tel Aviv could be completed in about 12 hours.
This is not Coetzee’s first long-distance walk of faith.
In 2020, he walked from Cape Town to Musina, an experience he says prepared him spiritually and physically for his current mission.
“It’s not my first walk, In 2020, I walked from Cape Town to Musina. That journey taught me endurance and faith lessons I carry with me today,” he said.
Despite the challenges that lie ahead, Coetzee remains confident that his journey will be guided by divine purpose.
“How I will complete the journey, I don’t know,” he said with a smile.
“But I believe God will make a way for me.”
The Beitbridge community expressed admiration for his commitment and courage, wishing him blessings and safety as he continues his Cross Walk Africa mission across the continent, walking with a life-size cross as a symbol of faith.