In a Wednesday, September 9 death notice, the Archdiocese said Fr. Chikuni was found deceased at the mortuary of Parirenyatwa Hospital.
According to recent police sources, Fr. Chikuni is believed to have been involved in a hit-and-run road accident near the intersection of Prince Edward Road and Samora Machel Avenue in Harare while attempting to cross the road.
Police sources said the vehicle involved was a Honda Fit.
The Priest reportedly had no identification documents with him at the time of the accident, making it difficult for authorities to establish his identity. His body was subsequently taken to the hospital mortuary.
Police are expected to issue an official statement on the circumstances surrounding his death.
The Archdiocese of Harare had earlier told church members during a Sunday, September 6 Mass that Fr. Chikuni was unaccounted for and said the matter had been reported to the police, who were assisting in efforts to locate him.
The Archdiocese later issued another statement on September 9 saying that the whereabouts of Fr. Chikuni were still unknown, calling for prayers.
The Catholic Archdiocese expressed sadness at the passing of Fr. Chikuni while remembering his dedication in serving the people of God in Harare.
“In this time of sorrow, we are reminded of the promise of the Resurrection. We take comfort in our faith that Father Chikuni has returned to the loving embrace of our Lord. His dedication to his pastoral duties and the impact he had on our community will forever be cherished in our hearts,” the Archdiocese said in the statement that was signed by the Archbishop Robert Christopher Ndlovu’s Secretary, Fr. Ephraim Murwira.
“We understand that the news of his passing is a profound loss for us all, and we urge everyone to come together in prayer as we reflect on the memories and blessings that Father Chikuni brought into our lives,” he added.
The Catholic Priest also thanked the people of God in the Catholic Archdiocese of Harare for their effort and support, saying, “Thank you for your prayers and support during this difficult time,” he said.
Following Fr. Chikuni’s death, the Archdiocese of Harare has announced a programme of prayer, Masses and burial to honor his life and ministry.
On Sunday, September 13, the body will be collected at 3:00 p.m. from Nyaradzo Herbert Chitepo and transported to New Highfields, Immaculate Conception and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish.
A Divine Office for the Dead will be held at 5:30 p.m., followed by a Vigil Mass at 6:00 p.m. The body will then lie in state for an all-night prayer.
On Monday, September 14, a Requiem Mass will be celebrated at 9:00 a.m., followed by the burial at Chishawasha Cemetery.
In preparation for the burial, the Archbishop has encouraged all Clergy and Women and Men Religious of the Archdiocese of Harare to offer Masses for Father Chikuni’s soul and to pray to the Divine Office for the Dead.
“We invite all the faithful to join in prayer for this devoted servant of God. Let us honor Father Regis Chikuni's legacy of faith, love, and service to our community. May his soul rest in eternal peace,” Fr. Murwira said in a statement dated Thursday, September 10.