1894
Pioneers and Locals’ First Meeting Place
Birth of Adventism in Africa
The Meeting at the Tree: Soluswe and the Adventist Pioneers in 1894
In 1894, when the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) pioneers arrived in Matabeleland to establish the first Adventist mission in Africa, they encountered both opportunities and challenges. One of the key moments in this early history was a significant meeting between the local people, led by a man named Soluswe, and the Adventist missionaries. This meeting reportedly took place under a large tree, serving as a place for discussions.
Who Was Soluswe?
Soluswe was a the son-in-law of the local Chief in the area. He (Soluswe) was assigned by the chief, Chief Mpini Mlevu, to be the head of the delegation of locals who met with the Adventist Pioneers for the first time. He played a crucial role as an intermediary between the Matabele people and the newly arrived Adventist missionaries.
The Meeting Under the Tree
The tree where the meeting took place became an important symbol of dialogue between two vastly different cultures. The missionaries, led by Pieter Wessels, had come with the goal of establishing a mission station. However, they needed the goodwill of the local people to succeed.
During the meeting, it is believed that the pioneers explained their purpose—to educate, provide healthcare, and introduce Christianity. The locals, skeptical but curious, listened and likely questioned the newcomers about their intentions. Given that Matabeleland had recently suffered turmoil due to conflicts with the British South Africa Company, there was understandable suspicion toward foreigners.
Soluswe and his people were cautious but did not outright reject the missionaries. Instead, they allowed them to settle and begin their work.
