Shepherd Bushiri is a well-known figure in Africa. He calls himself a prophet and leads a large Christian church. He is also a businessman and author. Born in Malawi, he has built a following around the world. People know him as Major 1. His life story includes spiritual work, business success, and legal troubles. This article looks at his journey in a clear way. It uses facts from reliable sources to help readers understand who he is. Bushiri’s story shows how faith and ambition can shape a person’s path. As of 2025, he remains active in his ministry while facing ongoing court cases.
His full name is Chipiliro Gama. He was born on February 20, 1983. He grew up in a simple family in northern Malawi. From a young age, he felt a call to serve God. Over time, he started a church that grew fast. Today, his church has branches in several countries. He claims to perform miracles like healing the sick. Some people see him as a true spiritual leader. Others question his methods. This biography covers his early years, work, family, and more. It aims to give a balanced view based on known events up to October 2025.
Bushiri’s influence reaches millions through social media and live events. His teachings focus on prosperity and faith. He has written books and runs businesses. Yet, he has faced accusations of fraud. South Africa wants him for trial, but he lives in Malawi. This mix of success and controversy makes his story interesting. Readers can learn about African religious leaders and the challenges they face. The following sections break down his life step by step.
Early Life
Shepherd Bushiri came into the world on February 20, 1983, in Mzuzu, a city in northern Malawi. His birth name is Chipiliro Gama. He belongs to the Tumbuka ethnic group. His father is from Malawi, and his mother is from Zambia. They lived in humble conditions in the Rumphi district before moving to Mzuzu. As a child, Bushiri experienced a normal upbringing in this area. Sources say his family was not wealthy, which shaped his views on hard work and faith.
From an early age, Bushiri showed interest in spiritual matters. He later shared that he felt a divine calling when he was young. Stories from his childhood include claims of visions and prayers. His mother named him Shepherd because of difficulties during his birth. She believed it was a sign from God. This name later fit his role as a church leader. Growing up in Malawi, he saw poverty and community life. These experiences may have influenced his later focus on helping others.
In his teens, Bushiri began to explore his faith more deeply. At age 13, he decided to dedicate his life to religious work. He started preaching in local areas. This early start set the foundation for his future career. Malawi’s northern region, with its mix of cultures, helped him connect with people from different backgrounds. By the time he was an adult, he had a strong sense of purpose. His early life teaches about starting small and building over time.
Education
Details about Bushiri’s formal education are limited, but some records exist. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Lilongwe in Malawi. He also has diplomas in business administration and communication from Alison University. These qualifications focus on practical skills like management and speaking.
Bushiri pursued studies that supported his ministry and business goals. He did not attend advanced theology schools, but he learned through self-study and experience. In 2022, Exploits University gave him an honorary doctorate for his work in leadership and charity. This award recognized his impact, not formal classes.
His education path shows a blend of academic and real-world learning. He used these skills to grow his church and companies. For young people, this highlights how education can open doors in different fields.
Rise to Prominence
Bushiri’s path to fame began in the late 2000s. He started preaching in Malawi around 2008. At first, his work was local. He held small meetings and shared messages about faith. In 2009, he gained attention after prophecies at his church in Mzuzu. People talked about his claims of deliverances and miracles.
By 2010, he founded the Enlightened Christian Gathering, or ECG. This church started in Mzuzu but grew quickly. He moved operations to South Africa, where he attracted large crowds. In Pretoria, his services filled stadiums. Videos of him performing acts like “walking on air” spread online in 2018.
His rise included media attention. He appeared on TV and social platforms. Claims of “miracle money” drew followers but also critics. Botswana banned him in 2017 over these practices. Despite challenges, his following expanded to Ghana and other countries. By 2015, videos showed him praying for the sick, which boosted his name.
This period shows how social media can help leaders grow. Bushiri used it to reach people far away. His story encourages others to share their talents widely.
Shepherd Bushiri leading a church service at The Jesus Nation Church.
Ministry and Church Leadership
Bushiri leads The Jesus Nation Church, once called Enlightened Christian Gathering. He founded it in 2010 in Mzuzu, Malawi. The church now has its main base in Lilongwe. It has branches in South Africa, Ghana, and other places.
His leadership style focuses on prophecies, healings, and teachings about prosperity. Services include worship, prayers, and claims of miracles. He holds events like the International Visitors Program for personal guidance. The church runs online services too, reaching global audiences.
As president, Bushiri guides the church’s vision. He emphasizes bold faith and community help. Millions follow his messages on YouTube and Facebook. In 2025, he continues live broadcasts from Malawi.
The church’s growth highlights teamwork and dedication. It offers lessons on building strong groups.
Business Ventures and Wealth
Bushiri owns several businesses under Shepherd Bushiri Investments. These include mining, real estate, and hospitality. He has interests in mines in Malawi and beyond. His companies also cover publishing and education.
Estimates of his net worth vary. Some sources say $150 million in 2021. Others put it at $310 million in 2025. He owns private jets and luxury properties. His wealth comes from church donations, businesses, and books.
Here is a list of his key ventures:
Mining operations in Africa.
Real estate holdings in Malawi and South Africa.
Hospitality businesses like hotels.
Publishing house for books.
Two universities linked to his church.
These show how he combines faith with commerce. His success teaches about diversifying income.
Personal Life
Bushiri is married to Mary Bushiri, born Mary Zgambo. They wed in 2011. She is a preacher, accountant, and businesswoman. Mary helps in the church and charity work. They have children, though details are private.
The family lives in Malawi. Bushiri calls Mary his best friend and partner. In 2025, they celebrated their 14th anniversary. Mary focuses on helping disadvantaged families, like in Dowa in 2022.
His lifestyle includes travel and public speaking. He values family support in his work. This part of his life shows the role of close relationships in success.
Shepherd Bushiri with his family during a holiday celebration.
Controversies and Legal Issues
Bushiri has faced several legal challenges. In 2018, South Africa arrested him on fraud and money laundering charges. He and Mary got bail but fled to Malawi in 2020. They face accusations of theft and violating crime laws.
In 2021, rape charges were added. A court ordered the sale of his jet in April 2025 for R50 million. As of July 2025, extradition hearings continued in Lilongwe. The High Court adjourned the case, with a ruling expected in September 2025.
Other issues include a lease dispute in 2025, where landlords sought R2.4 million. A politician was sacked in June 2025 for visiting him. Bushiri denies all charges and calls them false.
These events highlight risks in public life. They teach about accountability and law.
Achievements and Philanthropy
Bushiri has received many awards. In 2022, he got the Great Samaritan Award for humanitarian work. He has honorary doctorates for leadership.
His charity includes donations for hunger and disasters. In 2017, he gave K15 million for relief in Malawi. In 2024, he pledged $8 million to fight hunger in Africa.
He supports education and health. His work boosts tourism, as noted by Malawi’s vice president in February 2025. The church gives awards to members for service.
These efforts show how giving back can create change. They inspire community help.
Current Status and Future Outlook
As of October 2025, Bushiri lives in Malawi. He leads The Jesus Nation Church from Lilongwe. He holds regular services, like diplomatic and Sunday ones. His YouTube channel shares messages, including strategies for the year.
Legal matters continue. The extradition ruling was set for September 2025, but updates are pending. He remains active online, with events planned for late October 2025.
Looking ahead, he may expand his ministry. His focus on healing and provision suggests growth. Challenges could affect plans, but he stays committed.
Conclusion
Shepherd Bushiri’s life is a mix of faith, business, and trials. From his start in Malawi to leading a global church, he has made an impact. His story teaches about perseverance and community. While controversies exist, his charity helps many. Readers can think about leadership and ethics. His legacy will depend on future events.
FAQs
How old is Shepherd Bushiri?
He is 42 years old as of 2025.
Where is Shepherd Bushiri now?
He is in Malawi, leading his church.
Who is the wife of Shepherd Bushiri?
His wife is Mary Bushiri, a preacher and businesswoman.
What is Shepherd Bushiri known for?
He is known for his ministry, miracles, and business ventures.
Is Shepherd Bushiri a real prophet?
Views differ; supporters believe in his gifts, while critics question them.
What happened to Shepherd Bushiri?
He fled to Malawi in 2020 amid charges; extradition is ongoing as of 2025.