The Zion Christian Church (ZCC) has banned vehicle parking and informal trading along the R71 in front of its Moria City headquarters during its annual New Year Consecration Conference.
The conference is being held from Thursday, September 3, to Wednesday, September 9, 2026, and is expected to draw thousands of worshippers to the church’s headquarters outside Polokwane in Limpopo.
The restrictions will apply along the R71 between Polokwane and Tzaneen, from Matshelapata in Mentz to Mphogodiba.
ZCC spokesperson Moatshe Ngoepe said no vehicles would be allowed to park along the road in front of the church’s headquarters.
“No vehicles would be allowed to park along the road in front of the church’s headquarters,” Ngoepe said.
He said the measure was intended to keep traffic flowing, prevent congestion and ensure emergency vehicles had unobstructed access.
Hawkers and informal traders will also not be permitted to operate in front of the church during the conference.
“The restrictions are aimed at maintaining order, reducing congestion and addressing potential safety risks during the gathering,” Ngoepe said.
He said the measures were necessary to ensure the conference took place in a peaceful and safe environment.
“The restrictions were not aimed at small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs), but were necessary to protect worshippers, motorists and other road users,” Ngoepe said.
The annual gathering coincides with increased traffic and pedestrian movement around Moria, prompting the church to urge worshippers and visitors to exercise caution on the roads and remain vigilant against crime.
Ngoepe said the church was working with law enforcement agencies to address safety and security concerns during the event.
“The ZCC has also called on worshippers to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and adhere to safety guidelines throughout the conference,” he said.
