Bulawayo hosts post-Uhuru Day bash for elderly residents

FOR the more than 250 elderly residents of Bulawayo, gathering beneath one roof at the historic Large City Hall and sharing a warm, hearty meal was far more than a mere post Independence Day luncheon. It was a rare and precious moment to relive memories etched deep in their hearts, to honour a journey shaped by struggle and sacrifice, and to reaffirm a sense of belonging forged through shared years, shared pain and shared triumphs.

Yesterday, the Large City Hall was transformed into an immaculate and dignified setting befitting the stature of its honoured guests. Tables were laid with care, music filled the air and the hall echoed with gentle laughter as senior citizens were treated to a sumptuous meal in commemoration of Zimbabwe’s 46th Independence Day.

The gathering came a day after thousands of Zimbabweans converged in Maphisa, Matabeleland South Province, for the main celebrations presided over by President Mnangagwa, allowing those unable to travel to experience the spirit of independence closer to home.

The luncheon was hosted by the Bulawayo Metropolitan Province, bringing the national celebrations into the heart of the city and, more importantly, into the lives of those who once bore the heaviest burdens of the nation’s past.
Cde John Maluzu Mpofu, a war veteran from Matshobane, said he had been unable to travel to Maphisa but expressed gratitude that Government had brought the post Independence Day celebrations to their doorstep.

“A lot of us here cannot travel long distances due to old age and ill health but today (yesterday) we can sit down as war veterans and senior citizens to celebrate Independence Day. This is my second time attending this event and I know a lot of other elderly residents have been looking forward to coming here to share a meal,” said Cde Mpofu.

Mr Phathisa Sangweni, who travelled from Pumula North to attend the luncheon, described the event as deeply meaningful for the elderly.

“Celebrating Independence Day is important for all Zimbabweans regardless of age and we are happy to be sharing a meal as elderly residents of Bulawayo,” said Mr Sangweni.

The event was hosted by the Minister of State for Bulawayo Provincial Affairs and Devolution, Judith Ncube, as a heartfelt tribute to the enduring legacy, resilience and sacrifices of senior citizens whose lives are interwoven with the nation’s liberation story.

For many of the elderly guests, some of whom were once barred from entering City Hall during the colonial era, the occasion carried profound symbolic and emotional weight. To sit freely within those walls was itself a quiet but powerful celebration of freedom, dignity and belonging long denied.

“This is more than just a meal. It’s a sign that our sacrifices were not in vain. We feel honoured, appreciated and remembered. Some of us don’t have pensions or steady incomes, but kind gestures like these remind us that we’re not alone,” said 76-year-old Ms Roda Mlilo.

The luncheon was not only about food, but a celebration of history, resilience and unity. In a gesture that spoke to both compassion and practicality, the elderly were presented with generous grocery hampers containing essentials such as a 10kg bag of mealie-meal, cooking oil and other foodstuffs.

“We are grateful to Government for this thoughtful gesture. This hamper will go a long way in easing some of the daily burdens we face. More importantly, this gathering shows that we have not been forgotten,” added Ms Mlilo.
Beyond the shared meal and gifts, the event created a space for elders to reconnect with one another, to exchange stories and reflect on the sacrifices, losses and victories that marked Zimbabwe’s long road to independence, reminding all present that freedom was neither free nor easily won.

Speaking at the event, Minister Ncube said the luncheon was a small but sincere token of appreciation for the elderly’s enduring contribution to the nation.

“We acknowledge that the Independence Day celebrations are meaningful for the elderly. They offer the opportunities for the elderly to connect with their history, express patriotism, and foster a sense of belonging.

“It is, therefore, with immense pleasure and gratitude that we gather here today for this luncheon, a small gesture of our sincere appreciation for all that you have done and continue to do for our province,” she said.

Minister Ncube urged communities to continue cherishing, listening to and supporting senior citizens whose wisdom and lived experience remain invaluable.

“Let us all learn to listen more, respect more and love more. The strength and spirit of our elders are the foundation upon which our future rests. As we celebrate this special occasion, let us take a moment to acknowledge the invaluable wisdom, experience, and guidance that you have shared with us throughout the years,” she said.