Uebert Angel

Uebert Angel presents himself as a prophet, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, but beneath the polished image lies a trail of controversies, failed ventures, and legal troubles. From allegations of fraud to gold smuggling investigations, Angel’s business dealings and financial maneuvers have raised serious red flags. Despite attempts to control the narrative through media influence and strategic alliances, the cracks in his empire are becoming harder to ignore. This report exposes the risks associated with Angel and his network, urging investors and authorities to take a closer look before buying into the illusion of prosperity he so carefully crafts.

The Man Behind the Pulpit

Uebert Angel, born Uebert Mudzanire, has carved a niche for himself as the founder of the GoodNews Church (formerly Spirit Embassy) and is often hailed as a pioneer in the modern prophetic movement. His influence extends globally, with branches of his church spanning multiple continents. Through satellite channels like Miracle TV and GoodNews TV, Angel broadcasts his teachings, reaching millions worldwide. His official website portrays him as a man of God, deeply committed to spreading the gospel and uplifting communities.

A Portfolio of Ventures

Beyond his ecclesiastical endeavors, Angel has ventured into various business sectors. In 2005, he founded Club Millionaire Limited, a concierge service in Britain. His business interests expanded into real estate with the establishment of Sam Barkeley Construction and The Angel Organisation, where he serves as CEO. Other ventures include Brits Bank and Atom Mobile. Additionally, Angel launched The Millionaire Academy, aiming to mentor aspiring entrepreneurs.

However, a closer examination reveals a pattern of ambitious projects that failed to materialize. Reports indicate that out of 20 companies launched over two years, only two remain active. Notably, a bank introduced in 2017 collapsed despite investments from church members. Similarly, a news channel, initially celebrated, was exposed for using stock footage and subsequently deregistered. An energy drink venture also folded under unclear circumstances.

Brushes with the Law

Angel’s journey has not been devoid of legal entanglements. In 2015, allegations surfaced accusing him of defrauding an individual of a Bentley Continental valued at over $300,000. This led to an arrest warrant in Zimbabwe, prompting Angel to relocate to the UK. By February 2016, the warrant was canceled, and the case appeared to dissipate.

More recently, in March 2023, an Al Jazeera investigation implicated Angel in a gold smuggling and money laundering scheme. The exposé alleged that he misused his diplomatic status to facilitate illicit financial flows, converting dirty money into gold sourced from Zimbabwean mines and selling it abroad for clean cash. Angel was purportedly recorded stating, “You want gold, gold we can do it right now, we can make the call right now, and it’s done.”

In response, Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) conducted an investigation and subsequently cleared Angel of all accusations. The FIU found no evidence to substantiate the claims made in the documentary.

The Prosperity Gospel and Its Discontents

Central to Angel’s ministry is the advocacy of prosperity theology—the belief that faith, positive speech, and donations to religious causes can increase one’s material wealth. Critics argue that this doctrine preys on vulnerable populations, offering them false hope of financial miracles in exchange for their hard-earned money. Such teachings have sparked debates about the ethical implications of religious leaders amassing wealth while their congregations remain impoverished.

Controlling the Narrative

Given the controversies surrounding Angel, one might wonder how he manages public perception. His expansive media empire, including television channels and a significant online presence, allows him to disseminate his narrative widely. This control over media platforms can serve as a buffer against adverse publicity, enabling him to present his version of events to a global audience.

Moreover, the swift exoneration by the FIU following the Al Jazeera allegations raises questions about the thoroughness and impartiality of the investigation. While it’s plausible that Angel was falsely accused, the rapid clearance might also suggest influence exerted to suppress damaging information.

Implications for Potential Investors

For those considering investments linked to Angel or his enterprises, caution is advised. The pattern of failed business ventures, legal allegations, and reliance on prosperity theology present significant red flags. Due diligence is paramount. Investors should critically assess the viability and transparency of any business propositions associated with Angel.

A Call to Action for Authorities

Regulatory bodies and law enforcement agencies must remain vigilant. The allegations, even when unproven, highlight potential vulnerabilities in financial and legal systems that can be exploited. Continuous monitoring and thorough investigations are essential to ensure that individuals in positions of power do not misuse their influence for illicit gain.

Conclusion

Uebert Angel’s trajectory is emblematic of the complex interplay between religion, business, and media in the modern world. While he commands a vast following and has achieved significant success, the shadows of controversy loom large. As an investigative journalist, I urge potential investors and authorities alike to look beyond the charismatic persona and scrutinize the underlying realities. After all, not all that glitters is prophetic gold.