Online Reporter
Judith Phiri, Zimpapers Writer
AS preparations for this year’s Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day gather momentum, the Bulawayo business community and youth organisations have acknowledged the sacrifices made by liberation war heroes and the ongoing efforts of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF) in safeguarding peace and promoting national development.
Heroes Day, observed annually on the second Monday of August, pays tribute to Zimbabwe’s gallant heroes and heroines —both living and departed — who fought to liberate the country from colonial rule. Defence Forces Day, celebrated the following day, recognises the role of the ZDF in maintaining peace, sovereignty and stability.
This year’s Heroes Day commemorations will take place on Monday, August 11, at the National Heroes’ Acre in Harare, under the theme: “Zim@45: Devolve and Develop Together Towards Vision 2030.”
The Defence Forces Day celebrations will follow on Tuesday, August 12, at Rufaro Stadium in Harare, under the theme: “Zimbabwe Defence Forces: Guaranteeing a Conducive Environment for the Attainment of Vision 2030.”
Both events will be observed simultaneously across all provinces in the country.
In an interview, Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce (ZNCC) Matabeleland Chapter’s past vice president, Mr Louis Herbst, paid tribute to those who fought for the country’s independence and to the defence forces, who continue to uphold peace and stability.
“As we approach Heroes Day and Defence Forces Day, we pause not only to honour the men and women who gave their lives for our freedom, but also to acknowledge the enduring service of our armed forces.
“For the business community, these commemorations remind us that the peaceful and enabling environment we enjoy — where innovation, entrepreneurship, and trade can thrive — is built upon a legacy of courage and unity,” said Mr Herbst.
Mr Herbst emphasised the responsibility of all citizens to actively contribute to building the nation envisioned by the country’s heroes — one that is inclusive, self-reliant and prosperous.
Youth Network Connect (YNC) managing director, Mr Philimon Nyirenda, said young people remain deeply indebted to the liberation heroes for the freedoms they now enjoy.
“Their narratives are the tales of fierce, resilient, and determined heroines, who played a pivotal role in the country’s liberation struggle.
We need to continue economically emancipating our nation as a thank you to all of them. We also appreciate our defence forces for the part they have played — and continue to play — in building our sovereign nation into a secure country,” he said.
Mr Nyirenda noted the post-independence era opened access to previously restricted sectors of the economy for indigenous Zimbabweans.
“Young people are now participating in commercial farming, mining, manufacturing and international trade — spaces that were once exclusively reserved for the colonial elite,” he said.
Young Miners Foundation (YMF) chief executive officer, Mr Payne Kupfuwa, commended the sacrifices made by liberation war veterans, which enabled the current generation to operate freely within the mining sector.
“We are products of the liberation struggle. Because of the courage and determination of our forebears, we can now engage in formalised, professional, and environmentally sustainable mining practices,” he said.
Mr Kupfuwa further expressed gratitude to the defence forces for maintaining peace and security, which he described as fundamental prerequisites for business growth.
“Without peace, there is no business. The freedom and security we enjoy today are essential for the continued progress of our enterprises and communities,” he said.
Bongani Ndlovu