A High Court judge stopped the United Methodist Church from holding services at its Borrowdale property. Justice Munangati Manongwa ruled that residents deserve peaceful homes without noise and traffic problems. The church started activities at the location during 2006 without proper permits from city officials. Harare residents complained about loud worship services and crowded streets around their neighborhood. The legal fight between both sides lasted more than fifteen years.
Doveton Avenue homeowners asked the court to block church gatherings and events. They argued that religious activities created noise pollution and parking issues. City of Harare workers told church leaders to stop services until they received approval. The church obtained town planning permission during 2017 but never applied for operating licenses. Court documents showed that planning permits do not equal operating permits for religious activities.
The church claimed it had proper authorization to continue worship services. Officials said they received change of usage permits that allowed their operations. Justice Manongwa disagreed and found the church violated resident rights. The judge ordered the Methodist congregation to pay court costs and stop all activities. Church leaders must obtain operating permits before resuming services at the Borrowdale location.
Doveton Avenue homeowners asked the court to block church gatherings and events. They argued that religious activities created noise pollution and parking issues. City of Harare workers told church leaders to stop services until they received approval. The church obtained town planning permission during 2017 but never applied for operating licenses. Court documents showed that planning permits do not equal operating permits for religious activities.
The church claimed it had proper authorization to continue worship services. Officials said they received change of usage permits that allowed their operations. Justice Manongwa disagreed and found the church violated resident rights. The judge ordered the Methodist congregation to pay court costs and stop all activities. Church leaders must obtain operating permits before resuming services at the Borrowdale location.
