Africa is a continent brimming with spiritual vibrancy, a land where the Gospel of Jesus Christ has found fertile ground to thrive. Over the years, God has raised remarkable men and women of faith who have impacted millions with their teaching, ministry, and commitment to the Great Commission. Among these, Dag Heward-Mills stands out as one of the most influential pastors, not just in Africa but globally. His life and ministry have been a source of inspiration, and his unwavering focus on soul-winning has left an indelible mark on the body of Christ.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Dag Heward-Mills and highlight his ministry’s unique contributions, while also recognizing other prominent African pastors who have shaped the continent’s spiritual landscape.
Dag Heward-Mills: A Life of Faith and Fruitfulness
Dag Heward-Mills, the founder of the United Denominations Originating from the Lighthouse Group of Churches (UD-OLGC), is a pastor, evangelist, author, and teacher whose ministry has touched countless lives. With a presence in over 100 countries, his church denomination has become one of the largest and fastest-growing in Africa.
Born on May 14, 1963, in London, Dag Heward-Mills grew up in Ghana. He encountered Christ as a young medical student at the University of Ghana and soon felt the unmistakable call to ministry. His journey from a young man with a vision to one of Africa’s most impactful spiritual leaders is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the power of obedience.
A Ministry Rooted in Evangelism
Dag Heward-Mills is widely recognized for his passion for soul-winning. His ministry is deeply rooted in fulfilling the Great Commission as Jesus commanded in Matthew 28:19-20:
“Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.”
This mandate has driven him to preach the Gospel across the globe, often in places where others would hesitate to go. His Healing Jesus Campaigns, large-scale evangelistic crusades held in towns and cities across Africa, have led millions to Christ. These campaigns are known for their powerful preaching, miraculous healings, and the tangible presence of God.
Dag Heward-Mills is also a strong advocate for raising and sending missionaries. Through his ministry, thousands of pastors and church leaders have been trained and deployed to plant churches in remote and urban areas alike. His vision for missions is clear: every soul matters, and no corner of the world is too far or too difficult to reach with the Gospel.
A Prolific Author and Teacher
One of the hallmarks of Dag Heward-Mills’ ministry is his ability to communicate biblical truths in a simple yet profound way. He is a prolific author, having written over 100 books on topics ranging from church growth and leadership to Christian living and spiritual maturity. Some of his most well-known books include:
- Loyalty and Disloyalty
- The Art of Leadership
- The Mega Church
- Model Marriage
- The Art of Hearing
These books have been translated into multiple languages and are used as teaching tools in churches and Bible schools worldwide. His writings emphasize practical wisdom and spiritual discipline, equipping believers to live out their faith effectively.
Dag Heward-Mills is also the founder of the Anagkazo Bible and Ministry Training Centre, a world-class Bible school that trains men and women for ministry. The school’s emphasis on discipline, hard work, and spiritual fervor has produced leaders who are making a significant impact in their communities.
A Legacy of Leadership
One of the defining features of Dag Heward-Mills’ ministry is his emphasis on leadership and loyalty. He often teaches that effective ministry requires a combination of spiritual anointing and practical leadership skills. His book Loyalty and Disloyalty has become a classic in Christian leadership, addressing the importance of unity, commitment, and faithfulness in ministry.
Through his leadership, the UD-OLGC has grown into a family of over 3,000 churches. This remarkable growth is a testament to his ability to raise and empower leaders who share his vision and passion for the Gospel.
Dag Heward-Mills’ influence extends beyond the pulpit. He is a voice of wisdom and guidance to many pastors and leaders across the world. His humility, dedication, and unwavering focus on God’s work have earned him respect and admiration from the global Christian community.
Other Influential Pastors in Africa
While Dag Heward-Mills is undoubtedly a towering figure in African Christianity, he is part of a larger tapestry of spiritual leaders who have shaped the continent’s faith journey. Here are a few other pastors whose ministries have made a significant impact:
1. Bishop David Oyedepo
Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of Living Faith Church Worldwide (also known as Winners’ Chapel), is one of Africa’s most influential pastors. Known for his dynamic preaching and focus on faith and prosperity, Oyedepo has built one of the largest church auditoriums in the world, the Faith Tabernacle in Ota, Nigeria. His ministry has touched millions, and his books on faith and success have inspired countless believers.
2. Pastor Enoch Adeboye 
Pastor Enoch Adeboye, often referred to as “Daddy G.O.,” is the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG). Under his leadership, the RCCG has grown into a global network of churches with a presence in over 190 countries. Known for his humility and prayerful lifestyle, Pastor Adeboye is a spiritual father to many and a respected leader in the body of Christ.
3. Prophet Shepherd Bushiri
Prophet Shepherd Bushiri, founder of the Enlightened Christian Gathering (ECG), is known for his prophetic ministry and teachings on faith and financial empowerment. Based in South Africa, Bushiri’s ministry attracts thousands of people seeking spiritual direction and miracles.
4. Apostle Joshua Selman
Apostle Joshua Selman is the founder of Eternity Network International (ENI), based in Nigeria. Known for his deep teachings and emphasis on intimacy with God, Selman’s ministry has drawn a large following, particularly among young people hungry for sound doctrine and spiritual growth.
5. Pastor Alph Lukau
Pastor Alph Lukau, founder of Alleluia Ministries International, is known for his charismatic preaching and prophetic ministry. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, his church has become a hub for people seeking healing, deliverance, and the power of God.
The Unique Contribution of African Pastors
African pastors like Dag Heward-Mills and others mentioned above have brought a unique flavor to global Christianity. Their ministries are characterized by:
- A Passion for Prayer: Prayer is the backbone of many African ministries, and their reliance on God’s power is evident in their work.
- A Focus on the Supernatural: Healing, deliverance, and miracles are central to their ministries, reflecting the biblical pattern of Jesus’ ministry.
- Commitment to Discipleship: African pastors emphasize raising disciples who will carry the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
- Relevance to Local Contexts: These pastors address the specific needs and challenges of their communities, making the Gospel accessible and practical.
Dag Heward-Mills exemplifies the best of what African pastors bring to the global Christian stage. His tireless commitment to evangelism, leadership development, and missions has made him a spiritual giant in our time. Through his ministry, millions have encountered the saving power of Christ, and thousands of leaders have been raised to carry the Gospel to every corner of the earth. His life is a testament to what God can do through a servant fully surrendered to His will.
Yet, Dag Heward-Mills is not alone in this divine calling. Alongside him, pastors like Bishop David Oyedepo, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, Apostle Joshua Selman, and Prophet Shepherd Bushiri continue to shine as beacons of hope and faith. Each of these men has brought a unique dimension to ministry, from Bishop Oyedepo’s unwavering teachings on faith and prosperity, to Pastor Adeboye’s humble yet powerful leadership, to Apostle Selman’s deep emphasis on intimacy with God. These leaders have shown us that God’s work is as diverse as it is transformative, with each pastor contributing uniquely to the advancement of the kingdom of God.
Their ministries remind us that the fields are indeed white for harvest, as Jesus said in John 4:35: *“Lift up your eyes and look at the fields, for they are already white for harvest!”* They inspire us to look beyond ourselves and see the urgency of the Gospel, encouraging us to step out in faith to reach the lost and disciple nations.
Africa’s spiritual leaders are not just a blessing to their congregations or even to their continent—they are a gift to the global body of Christ. Their ministries demonstrate that God is doing a mighty work in Africa, raising up leaders who are bold, faithful, and Spirit-filled. Their legacy will continue to inspire generations, as they model what it means to live out the Great Commission with passion and purpose.
May their example challenge us all to serve God wholeheartedly, to invest in the lives of others, and to advance the Gospel wherever He has placed us. As we reflect on their lives and ministries, let us also remember to pray for them—that God would continue to strengthen, guide, and anoint them for the work ahead.
Africa’s pastors are writing a powerful chapter in the story of global Christianity. They are proof that the Gospel is alive, powerful, and transforming lives in ways that only God can orchestrate. Their impact will undoubtedly echo into eternity, as they faithfully fulfill their God-given assignments to the glory of His name.