By Religious Reporter-Self-styled prophet Emmanuel Makandiwa has ignited controversy after challenging ordinary people, traditional healers, and fellow prophets to a public test of their so-called spiritual powers.
The charismatic preacher, known for his dramatic prophecies and extravagant lifestyle, pledged to give US$1 million to anyone who could correctly reveal what he would have in his pocket.
Makandiwa, however, admitted he does not have that kind of money and would need to borrow it to honor his promise should someone prove him wrong.
He extended the challenge beyond Zimbabwe’s borders to Nigeria, Kenya, and Uganda, claiming he wanted to expose self-proclaimed spiritual figures as frauds.
“If anyone can prophesy and if there is a witch doctor who can see, who gets told things by demons, we can arrange for you to come here on Sunday,” Makandiwa declared.
“We are not praying for each other. I will just put something in my pocket, and the one who tells me what it is will get US$1 million. I don’t have the money, but we will sign an agreement, and you can sue me. It’s not a joke.”
Makandiwa said he was willing to fly challengers to Zimbabwe at his own expense—on condition they reimburse him if they fail.
This latest stunt has fueled debate about Makandiwa’s motives, with critics arguing that it is another calculated attempt to maintain his grip on desperate followers.
Like fellow controversial prophets Walter Magaya, Passion Java, and Uebert Angel, Makandiwa has long been accused of using spiritual psychological tactics to exploit believers financially.
Makandiwa, Magaya, Java, and Angel have built empires on the back of so-called prophetic miracles—ranging from fake healings, miracle money, and fabricated prophecies to selling anointed oils and wristbands that promise prosperity.
Their followers, often vulnerable individuals seeking breakthroughs, are manipulated into giving large sums of money in tithes and “seed offerings” under the illusion that blessings will follow.
Magaya, for instance, was exposed for faking miracles and selling ‘anointed’ pills he falsely claimed could cure HIV and cancer.
Uebert Angel, Zimbabwe’s presidential envoy for investment, has been linked to gold smuggling and money laundering, while Passion Java flaunts obscene wealth on social media, despite leading a flock that largely remains in poverty.
Makandiwa’s challenge has drawn mixed reactions from religious scholars and fellow prophets.
Prominent Bible scholar Fungai Maponga warned that Makandiwa might be falling into a satanic trap by using money as a test of power—a move reminiscent of Jesus’ temptation by the devil in the wilderness.
“We respect Prophet Makandiwa as a teacher of the Word, but pledging money was a mistake.
Jesus’ powers were tested by the devil, but he responded with scripture. Makandiwa has failed his own test of integrity by offering money—how is he different from the false prophets and sangomas he is challenging?”
Makandiwa’s rivals have seized the opportunity to mock his challenge.
Prophet Passion Java dismissed Makandiwa’s credibility and countered with his own dare.
“On Sunday, VaMakandiwa, ndirikuuya nechirema chikafamba, ndokupai US$10 million.”
(“On Sunday, Makandiwa, I am coming with a crippled person—if they walk, I will give you US$10 million.”)
Meanwhile, Miracle Paul, a Chitungwiza-based prophet, warned those attempting to win the money to be cautious, suggesting spiritual consequences could follow.
“Chenjerai kuti munodzoka musisawone kana chinhu ikoko,” (“Be careful that you don’t return empty-handed or worse.”)
Despite the backlash, some of Makandiwa’s supporters have praised his challenge, comparing it to Elijah’s biblical showdown with the prophets of Baal.
“Elijah dealt heavily with false prophets. We want Makandiwa to do the same,” said one supporter who declined to be named.
Makandiwa has remained tight-lipped amid the storm, with his spokesperson, Prophet Prime Kufa, stating that the church leader would not entertain further questions.
“A number of media houses have called seeking an interview with Prophet Makandiwa, but he said he is not taking any questions. He has said everything in the circulating post.”
As Makandiwa’s challenge continues to stir debate, questions remain: Is he genuinely exposing false prophets, or is this another manipulation to cement his influence and keep followers hooked?