Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve , Victoria Falls Reporter
GOVERNMENT is set to confer Independence Medals to 2 000 eligible Veterans of the Liberation Struggle during this year’s Heroes Day commemorations, as part of efforts to honour their sacrifices for the nation’s freedom.
Information, Publicity and Broadcasting Services Minister, Dr Jenfan Muswere, revealed this during a post-Cabinet media briefing on Tuesday, where he outlined preparations for the 2025 Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day celebrations.
He said the main Heroes Day event will be held on Monday, August 11, at the National Heroes Acre in Harare, with parallel provincial commemorations taking place across the country.
“Preparations have already commenced, including the compilation of an updated list of National Heroes and Heroines, with 222 families expected to attend the main event,” said Dr Muswere.
The annual event honours fallen and living heroes, who played pivotal roles in Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle and nation-building efforts.
The following day, August 12, will mark the Defence Forces Day celebrations under the theme: “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030”. The main event will be held at Rufaro Stadium in Harare.
The celebrations will feature a military parade, displays, and a community assistance week, demonstrating the armed forces’ commitment to national development, said Dr Muswere.
A soccer match between the Zimbabwe Defence Forces select team and a regional select team will also be part of the festivities.
Dr Muswere said the Government has shortlisted three outstanding individuals for national honours and awards during this year’s ceremony.
“The Government of Zimbabwe has shortlisted three exceptional individuals for conferment with honours and awards at this year’s ceremony, which will coincide with the National Heroes Day commemorations,” he said.
“The recipients include Dr Vladimir Shubin, former head of the Africa Section of the Soviet Afro-Asian Solidarity Committee, who will receive the Royal Order of Munhumutapa, Innocent Chidhudhu, a teenager, who bravely rescued two children from a burning house in Bindura, who will be awarded the Silver Cross of Zimbabwe and Dr Madeline Nyamwanza, the first female African Medical Doctor in Zimbabwe, who will receive the Robert Gabriel Mugabe Commendation Award for Service in Human Capital Development,” he said.
In line with the Government’s commitment to recognising the sacrifices of liberation war veterans, Dr Muswere said 2 000 eligible veterans will be conferred with independence medals through the respective Ministers of State for Provincial Affairs and Devolution.
“This initiative aims to honour their outstanding service and sacrifices during the Liberation Struggle,” he said.
Additionally, eligible civil servants, who have rendered distinguished service will be gazetted and awarded medals in phases, ensuring their contributions are also recognised.
As the nation prepares for these important commemorations, Zimbabweans are encouraged to reflect on the sacrifices made by heroes, both past and present, in securing the country’s freedom and fostering development.
The Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day celebrations serve as a reminder of the resilience and unity that continue to drive Zimbabwe forward under Vision 2030.
