HARARE, June 11 (Xinhua) -- Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa has proclaimed June 15 as the presidential national day of prayer and fasting in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Zimbabwe has witnessed a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases in recent weeks, driven mainly by citizens returning from neighboring countries. As at June 11, the country's COVID-19 cases stood at 320 from 149 on May 30, recoveries stand at 49 while deaths are four.

"As your president, during this very difficult season in which our nation and indeed the world, face the challenge of COVID-19 pandemic; I am humbled to invite you all, in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ, to take time in prayer and fasting as a nation before the Almighty God, to seek his mercy, wisdom, help and healing to overcome this deadly pandemic," Mnangagwa said at a press conference Thursday.

He said he will lead the national day of prayer and fasting at State House, with the nation following the event on national television and other online platforms.

Mnangagwa said citizens should participate in this event as families and in small groups not exceeding 50 people while observing precautions to prevent the further spread of the coronavirus.