Post-election violence in Zimbabwe could reach genocide-type proportions without intervention from the international community, the country's church leaders warned on Tuesday.

"We warn the world that if nothing is done to help the people of Zimbabwe from their predicament, we shall soon be witnessing genocide similar to that experienced in Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi and other hot spots in Africa and elsewhere," leaders of all denominations said a joint statement.

"To the Southern African Development Community (Sadc), the African Union and the United Nations to work towards arresting the deteriorating political and security situation in Zimbabwe."

A recount of ballots is under way in Zimbabwe in the wake of the 29 March elections, amid allegations that longtime leader Robert Mugabe (84) is trying to steal the outcome and cling to power.

AFP