WMI Initiatives And Projects

Understanding the Approach of Archbishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa

Archbishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa’s approach to ministry reflects a significant interpretation of the apostolic model established by Paul the Apostle. This model emphasizes self-sufficiency and personal responsibility in ministry, diverging from reliance on external financial support.

The Apostolic Model of Paul

Paul the Apostle is often cited as a foundational figure in Christian ministry, known for his tireless work ethic and commitment to spreading the Gospel. His teachings and practices provide a blueprint for many contemporary leaders in faith communities. Notably, Paul emphasized earning one’s living through hard work rather than depending solely on donations or offerings from those he served. He famously stated, “You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions” (Acts 20:34). This statement underscores his belief in the dignity of labor and the importance of self-reliance.

Application by Archbishop Gamanywa

In emulating Paul’s example, Archbishop Gamanywa has chosen to leverage his professional skills—specifically in media and business—to create sustainable projects that can fund his ministry efforts. By doing so, he aligns with Paul’s teaching that it is more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). This approach not only supports his immediate needs but also allows him to reinvest profits into church-related activities, thereby fostering growth within his community.

Self-Sustainability in Ministry

The concept of self-sustainability is crucial in modern ministry contexts where financial resources may be limited or inconsistent. By initiating self-sustaining projects, Archbishop Gamanywa aims to empower both himself and those around him economically while simultaneously promoting spiritual growth through reinvestment into Gospel initiatives. This strategy reflects a proactive stance towards ministry funding, ensuring that resources are available without compromising the integrity or mission of the church.

The first initiatives and projects established by Archbishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa included Shalom Pre-Primary Schools; WMI media facilities such as Msemakweli Newspapers, WAPO Radio FM, and WAPO TV; the establishment of WMI Company Ltd and its subsidiary GAFACO Ltd; and YSSCL Security Company Ltd.

In summary, Archbishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa’s approach mirrors that of Paul by emphasizing self-sufficiency through professional skills rather than relying on external aid. His commitment to creating sustainable projects not only supports his ministry but also embodies the principle that hard work can lead to greater blessings for both giver and receiver.

Shalom Pre-Primary Schools

The vision behind the establishment of Shalom Pre-Primary School was sparked by the challenge of moral decadence that had started to affect educational institutions in Dar Es Salaam. It was at this point that Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa decided to establish a school on the premises of WMI that focuses on protecting children’s morals and providing quality education.

The founder of Shalom Pre-Primary School, Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa, identified a need for an educational institution that prioritizes both moral values and academic excellence. This decision was influenced by the observation of declining moral standards in Dar Es Salaam’s educational sector.

Prof. Gamanywa collaborated with his partner, who also brought his two children—one one girl and one boy—to the initiative. Thus, Shalom Nursery School began its operations in 1997. This marked the beginning of a new educational endeavor aimed at addressing the moral and educational needs of young children in Dar es Salaam.

Currently, Shalom Mission Pre- and Primary School is a legally registered institution recognized by the relevant authorities under Reg. No. EM 15057 and has been operating for over 30 years, during which a considerable number of pupils have studied at this school; some of them have now become prominent leaders and workers in public and private institutions.

As of 2025, David and Shi’ma, the children of Prof. Gamanywa, have graduated from university. Moreover, they are married, and each has two sons. This development reflects not only the growth of the children but also the success of the educational vision set forth by their father.

MSEMA KWELI NEWSPAPER

In 1992, Bishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa conceived the idea of starting a Christian media network as a great way to reach many people at once and in a short time. As a professional in the media industry, he founded the first Pentecostal Christian newspaper in Tanzania.

At that time, it was difficult to obtain official registration for a private media outlet, but by grace, he secured the registration of Msemakweli newspaper, which has been printed and distributed on the streets for over 30 years.

Through Msemakweli Newspaper, he managed to publish about 10,416 teaching articles over this period of more than 30 years.

Even though Msemakweli newspaper is of Pentecostal faith, as an independent media outlet it has considered the values of news, including serving as a communication platform for various Christian sects and advertisements for all types of readers regardless of religion, race, or gender. Currently, Msemakweli is regarded and highly respected as a voice platform for the Christian community in matters of faith and social issues in East Africa.

WAPO RADIO FM 98.1 MHz

10 years after the establishment of Msemakweli Newspaper, in 2002, Bishop Prof. Sylvester Gamanywa managed to establish the first Pentecostal Radio focused on promoting Christian values without mixing secular music.

For a period of over 23 years, he was able to produce 31,248 of live streaming shows sermons and intercessions, that has transformed hundred millions of listerners.

WAPO TV ONLINE

In 2016, I decided to focus on social networks on the internet, where we opened a channel on YouTube called SHALOM TV, which we later changed to WAPO TV ONLINE. This is licensed from TCRA.

Through WAPO TV Online I have managed to broadcast about 336 live Sunday worship programs in a period of 7 years (2016-2022) and reached about 336,0M viewers.

In addition, in parallel with the broadcasting of Announcements through Youtube, I also opened a page on Facebook in the name of BISHOP SYLVESTER GAMANYWA where I have about 424,000 followers who follow my teachings every day.